INTEGRATED MAINS AND PRELIMS MENTORSHIP (IMPM) 2025 Daily KEY
| Exclusive for Subscribers Daily:
Genome-edited rice and Heatwave and its significance for the UPSC Exam? Why are topics like Russia-Ukraine and World Order, Akash Missile important for both preliminary and main exams? Discover more insights in the UPSC Exam Notes for May 15, 2025 |
🚨 UPSC EXAM NOTES presents the March edition of our comprehensive monthly guide. Access it to enhance your preparation. We value your input - share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments section or via email at Support@upscexamnotes.com 🚨
Critical Topics and Their Significance for the UPSC CSE Examination on May 15, 2025
Daily Insights and Initiatives for UPSC Exam Notes: Comprehensive explanations and high-quality material provided regularly for students
How did India develop genome edited rice?
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international Significance
For Mains Examination: GS III - Science & Technology
Context:
world to develop rice varieties using genome editing technology. The new seeds will be available for farmers after the required clearances within six months and large-scale seed production will probably take place during the next three crop seasons.
Read about:
Genome Editing
Genome Mapping
Key takeaways:
- A group of scientists from multiple institutions, under the leadership of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), played a key role in developing two new rice varieties — DRR Dhan 100 (also called Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1. Kamala was bred from the widely cultivated, high-yielding green rice variety Samba Mahsuri, while Pusa DST Rice 1 was developed from Maruteru 1010 (MTU1010).
- ICAR stated that rising food demand, climate change, and increased exposure to both biotic (like pests) and abiotic (like water shortages) stresses prompted the creation of these high-yielding, climate-resilient, and nutrient-rich rice strains. Kamala demonstrates improved drought tolerance, early maturity (by about 20 days), better nitrogen use efficiency, and higher yields — averaging 5.37 tonnes per hectare, compared to Samba Mahsuri’s 4.5 tonnes. Early maturity contributes to resource conservation by reducing water and fertilizer needs and lowering methane emissions.
- Pusa DST Rice 1 has shown a 9.66% yield advantage over MTU1010 under inland salinity stress, producing 3,508 kg per hectare versus 3,199 kg. Under alkaline soil conditions, it yielded 14.66% more, and under coastal salinity stress, it demonstrated a 30.4% yield gain.
- The initial peer-reviewed study on Pusa DST Rice 1 was published in 2020 and has been cited over 300 times. The paper on Kamala is currently in the publication process. Both rice varieties have gained recognition from the global scientific community.
- The SDN-1 technique involves the cell repairing a DNA cut on its own, while SDN-2 guides the repair process. SDN-3, however, incorporates foreign genes and falls under genetically modified (GM) methods.
- In contrast, the two rice varieties developed here involved no foreign DNA — the changes occurred through natural mutations using precision genome editing, which several countries do not regulate under GM crop laws.
- Genome editing is a modern technique that allows scientists to make precise changes to the DNA of an organism. Instead of introducing genes from other species, genome editing works by directly altering the organism’s own genetic code. This is done by cutting the DNA at specific locations, and then letting the cell’s natural repair mechanisms fix the cut, which can result in small, targeted changes.
- There are different methods within genome editing. For example, one approach lets the cell repair the DNA break on its own, causing natural mutations in specific spots. Another method provides a guide to help the cell make a particular change during the repair process. These techniques mimic the way mutations occur naturally but do so much faster and more accurately.
- Because genome-edited plants don’t contain foreign genes, many countries don’t classify them as genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This means they often face fewer regulatory hurdles, making genome editing a powerful and efficient tool for developing improved crops that are more resilient and productive
Follow Up Question
1.With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of 'genome sequencing', often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future? (UPSC 2017)
|
Answer (D)
|
Why are temperatures rising in A.P. and Telangana?
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international Significance
For Mains Examination: GS I - Heatwaves, Marine heatwave
Context:
On May 12, 17 districts of Andhra Pradesh recorded temperatures above 41ºC, with the A.P. State Disaster Management Authority saying heatwave-like conditions are set to prevail in the northern districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram, Paravathipuram-Manyam, East Godavari, and Kakinada. Mercury levels surged past the 40º C mark across all 33 districts of Telangana on April 21
Read about:
What is a heatwave?
What is a Marine heatwave?
Key takeaways:
- Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana lie near the Tropic of Cancer, placing them within the tropical or torrid zone, which is known for its hot and humid climate. Because these states are situated close to this latitude, the sun is almost directly overhead during the summer months, resulting in increased solar radiation and higher temperatures.
- Consequently, the region experiences a continental type of climate where daytime temperatures can rise significantly, especially in the inland areas of Andhra Pradesh.
- Evaporative cooling is a natural process that reduces the temperature of the environment as water evaporates, drawing heat from the surroundings to change into vapor.
- In dry areas like Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, this cooling effect is limited due to the rocky terrain and minimal agricultural activity during summer, which means irrigation has little impact.
- Irrigation normally helps cool the land through soil moisture, where evaporation and plant transpiration lower the local heat intensity during hot periods.
- From March to May, both states receive very little rainfall, which means temperatures remain high due to a lack of cloud cover. The monsoon season arrives only after June 10, allowing more direct sunlight and contributing to rising heat levels during the pre-monsoon months
Heatwave
- A heatwave is a prolonged period of excessively high temperatures, often accompanied by high humidity, that goes beyond the normal climate patterns of a region. It typically lasts for several days or even weeks and can cause serious health risks such as heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke.
- Heatwaves usually occur when a high-pressure system traps warm air over an area, preventing it from dispersing. This leads to continuous heating and rising temperatures. Heatwaves are especially dangerous in places where people may not have access to sufficient cooling resources like air conditioning or water.
- In agriculture, heatwaves can severely affect crop growth by causing water stress and damaging sensitive plants. They also increase the demand for water and electricity, putting pressure on infrastructure
|
Answer (A)
|
How the Russia-Ukraine conflict also became a cultural war?
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international Significance
For Mains Examination: GS II - International relations
Context:
Russian and Ukrainian writers have long explored the themes of Victory Day and World War II. But how does literature reflect the differing commemorations of Victory Day — on May 9 in Russia and May 8 in Ukraine?
Read about:
Russia-Ukraine and World Order
Russia-China-Ukraine
Key takeaways:
The Russia-Ukraine conflict has evolved beyond a geopolitical and military struggle—it has also become a cultural war, where identity, language, history, and national memory are at the heart of the confrontation.
Here's how:
- Russia, particularly under President Vladimir Putin, has repeatedly asserted that Ukrainians and Russians are "one people" with a shared historical and cultural past rooted in Kyivan Rus—a medieval state seen as the cradle of both Russian and Ukrainian civilization.
- However, Ukraine views itself as a distinct nation with its own language, culture, and historical experiences, especially those involving resistance to Russian domination (e.g., the Holodomor, Soviet repression)
- Language plays a central role in the cultural conflict. Russian is widely spoken in parts of Ukraine, especially the east and south. However, since the conflict began (and especially after 2014), Ukraine has promoted the Ukrainian language as a marker of national identity and independence.
- Schools, media, and public administration have increasingly adopted Ukrainian over Russian, which Russia frames as "oppression of Russian speakers"—a key justification in its narrative for intervention
- During the invasion, museums, theatres, libraries, and monuments in Ukraine have been damaged or destroyed, either incidentally or deliberately. Ukrainian officials and international observers have accused Russia of attempting cultural erasure, including the destruction of artifacts that represent Ukraine’s separate identity
- In territories occupied by Russia, reports indicate that Ukrainian books are being removed from libraries, Ukrainian language education is being replaced with Russian curricula, and Ukrainian symbols are being taken down. This is seen as part of an effort to "Russify" these regions and sever ties to Ukrainian national identity
- Ukraine has actively removed Soviet-era monuments and symbols, particularly since 2014, under its “decommunization” efforts. This move is seen by Russia as a rejection of shared heritage, but by Ukraine as necessary for reclaiming historical truth and independence
Follow Up Question
1.What role does public memory, including commemorative practices and symbols, play in shaping national identity in post-Soviet states like Ukraine and Russia?
For Preliminary Examination: Brahmos Missiles, Ballistic Missiles, Intercontinental ballistic Missiles
For Mains Examination: GS III - Science & Technology
Context:
Akash (“sky” in Sanskrit) is a mobile short-to-medium-range surface-to-air missile system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and currently in service with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army.
Read about:
Intercontinental ballistic missile
Brahmos Missile
Key takeaways:
- The Akash missile system is an indigenously developed surface-to-air missile (SAM) system designed by India to provide air defence coverage against a variety of aerial threats.
- Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), the Akash system represents a significant milestone in India’s defence capabilities.
- Akash is primarily designed to safeguard vulnerable areas and critical installations from aerial attacks, including threats from enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
- What sets the Akash system apart is its ability to simultaneously engage multiple targets, making it a valuable asset for the Indian Armed Forces. The Indian Air Force inducted the system in 2014, followed by the Indian Army in 2015.
- The missile is powered by a solid-fuel booster and a ramjet engine, allowing it to reach speeds up to Mach 2.5, which is more than twice the speed of sound. It has an operational range of around 25 to 30 kilometres in its original version, though newer variants are extending this range. The missile carries a 55 kg pre-fragmented warhead, which is detonated by a proximity fuse, ensuring effectiveness even without a direct hit.
- One of the critical components of the Akash system is its radar network. A 3D Central Acquisition Radar scans the skies and detects incoming threats up to 120 kilometres away. Once a threat is identified, tracking and targeting are taken over by the Rajendra radar, a multifunctional phased-array radar with an 80-kilometre range.
- This radar can track multiple targets and guide several missiles at once, transmitting real-time data to the command centre, which then calculates the best interception trajectory.
- Missiles are launched from mobile platforms, typically self-propelled launchers that can carry multiple missiles and move easily with convoys.
- This mobility makes Akash highly adaptable in battlefield conditions, allowing for quick deployment and repositioning. The system also includes features to counter electronic warfare, with electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM) built in to resist jamming and spoofing by enemy systems.
- Over time, the system has been upgraded. For instance, Akash Prime is a variant with improved performance in low temperatures and high-altitude conditions. Another version, the Akash-NG (New Generation), offers greater range (up to 70 km), faster reaction time, and a lighter design. It includes a canisterized missile with an active radar seeker, improving accuracy and ease of transportation.
- In conclusion, Akash is not just a missile—it is a comprehensive air defence system that showcases India’s progress toward self-reliance in defence technology. Its ability to intercept multiple aerial threats, combined with indigenous design and production, makes it a cornerstone of India’s strategic air defence infrastructure
Follow Up Question
|
Answer (D)
Statement 1: "Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket-powered only in the initial phase of flight."
Statement 2: "Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile."
|
For Preliminary Examination: Current events of national and international Significance
For Mains Examination: GS I - Weather Phenomenon
Context:
In the wake of budget cuts by the Trump administration, a Silicon Valley startup will soon start to replace the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) weather balloons with AI-powered alternatives, which are supposed to be much cheaper
Read about:
History of a weather balloon
Significance of Weather Balloon
Key takeaways:
Weather Balloon: History and Significance
- A weather balloon, also known as a sounding balloon, is a high-altitude balloon that carries instruments into the upper atmosphere to collect data on temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed, and wind direction. This data is critical for accurate weather forecasting, climate research, and understanding atmospheric processes
- The concept of upper-air observation dates back to the 18th century. In 1749, two students in Glasgow, Scotland, used kites to measure temperature at high altitudes. Later, meteorologists began using kites equipped with meteorographs, devices that recorded atmospheric data.
- In the 1780s, the invention of hot air balloons in France allowed scientists to ascend with instruments for direct atmospheric measurement. However, manned balloon flights were risky. For example, in 1862, two British scientists reached an altitude of about 11 km and almost lost their lives due to cold and oxygen deprivation.
- As an alternative, unmanned balloon observations became more common. By the late 19th century, French meteorologist Léon Teisserenc de Bort began using unmanned hydrogen-filled balloons carrying meteorographs. In 1896, through repeated launches, he discovered the tropopause and stratosphere, two critical atmospheric layers.
- The major limitation of these early meteorographs was that the data could only be retrieved after recovering the instruments, which wasn't always successful
- The invention of the radiosonde in the 1930s revolutionized upper-air data collection. A radiosonde is a small, lightweight instrument attached to a weather balloon that transmits atmospheric data in real-time to ground stations via radio signals.
- In 1937, the U.S. Weather Bureau established a network of radiosonde stations. India also has a well-established network, currently operating 56 radiosonde stations. Radiosondes have evolved with technology and now often use GPS to track wind speeds and position with high precision.
- Today, around 900 weather balloons are launched twice daily worldwide (at 0000 UTC and 1200 UTC) as part of a coordinated global program. These launches help create a comprehensive 3D snapshot of the atmosphere, which is essential for accurate weather forecasting, monitoring climate patterns, and understanding phenomena like El Niño and La Niña.
- A typical weather balloon is made of latex and filled with helium or hydrogen. It can rise to an altitude of up to 35 km (115,000 feet) and expand in size as air pressure decreases. The attached radiosonde transmits live data as it ascends. Eventually, the balloon bursts, and the instrument descends with a parachute.
- Despite the rise of satellites, weather balloons remain indispensable. Satellites offer broad coverage but can't provide the granular, vertical data that balloons can collect. For instance, information from the lower and mid-troposphere—where most weather phenomena occur—is best captured by weather balloons.
- Radiosonde data is also vital for calibrating satellite sensors, ensuring that remote sensing data is accurate. This makes weather balloons not only crucial for forecasting but also for climate science, aviation, and even defense operations
- Weather balloons represent one of the most effective and time-tested tools in meteorology. From humble beginnings with kites and hot air balloons to today’s high-tech radiosonde systems, they have transformed our ability to observe, understand, and predict the weather. Their role remains central even in the age of satellites, proving that sometimes, the oldest tools are still among the most reliable
1.With reference to weather balloons, consider the following statements:
-
Weather balloons are used to collect data only from the stratosphere.
-
Radiosondes attached to weather balloons can transmit real-time atmospheric data to ground stations.
-
Weather balloons are primarily launched to study weather phenomena in the mesosphere.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 2 and 3 only
|
Answer (B)
|
- The Southwest Monsoon serves as India's primary rainy season, delivering over 70% of the nation’s annual precipitation between June and September. Typically, the monsoon first makes landfall over the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal around the third week of May before gradually advancing across the Indian subcontinent.
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) officially declares the onset of the monsoon over India when it reaches Kerala, where the usual arrival date is June 1. After that, the rains steadily spread northward, covering the entire country by approximately July 15. This year, forecasts suggest an earlier onset around May 27, about five days ahead of schedule.
- Two major oceanic phenomena influence the monsoon — the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) in the Indian Ocean. A warming of the eastern Pacific, termed El Niño, usually results in below-normal monsoon rains in India, while La Niña tends to enhance rainfall. The IOD is positive when the Arabian Sea is warmer than the Bay of Bengal, generally aiding monsoon performance.
- About 75% of India’s yearly rainfall is concentrated during these four monsoon months. This water is vital for agriculture, drinking water supplies, hydroelectric power, and overall economic health. Notably, this year’s monsoon has made its earliest advance in seven years. As per IMD's schedule, the normal date for onset over the South Andaman Sea and Port Blair is May 21.
- On May 13, IMD announced that the monsoon had progressed into parts of the South Bay of Bengal, South Andaman Sea, and Nicobar Islands, with further movement expected in the following days. Meteorological conditions are favorable for continued advancement into the South Arabian Sea, Maldives region, and more areas of the Bay of Bengal.
- Rainfall patterns in the Nicobar Islands, including moderate to heavy showers in recent days, have fulfilled one of the key criteria for declaring monsoon onset. The IMD also projects above-normal monsoon rainfall this year, estimating it at 105% of the Long Period Average (LPA) of 880 mm.
- Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of IMD, noted several contributing factors to this early onset: unusually high minimum temperatures in North India, intensified westerly winds at lower levels, stronger easterly winds at upper levels, consistent pre-monsoon showers over southern India over the past month, and higher-than-normal atmospheric pressure in the northwest Pacific Ocean.
The Long Period Average (LPA) refers to the average rainfall received by India during the southwest monsoon season (June to September) over a specific long-term period. Currently, the LPA is calculated based on the average rainfall from the years 1971 to 2020.
Current LPA:
-
As per the latest data, the LPA of southwest monsoon rainfall is 87 cm (or 870 mm).
Why is LPA important?
-
Monsoon Forecasts: IMD uses LPA as a benchmark to issue monsoon forecasts. Rainfall is expressed as a percentage of the LPA.
-
Classifying Monsoons:
-
Normal monsoon: 96% to 104% of LPA
-
Below normal: 90% to 95% of LPA
-
Deficient: Less than 90% of LPA
-
Above normal: 105% to 110% of LPA
-
Excess: More than 110% of LPA
-
Follow Up Question
1. IOD phenomenon is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean.
2. An IOD phenomenon can influence an EI Nino’s impact on the monsoon.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
|
Answer (b)
Statement 1: Incorrect Statement 2: Correct |
- As part of a national initiative, health workers conducted targeted screenings for tuberculosis (TB) among high-risk groups, including individuals in close contact with TB patients, the malnourished, people living with HIV, diabetics, smokers, and alcohol users.
- This extensive effort led to the screening of over 12.9 crore at-risk individuals, resulting in the identification of approximately 7.19 lakh new TB cases — notably including 2.85 lakh who exhibited no symptoms.
- The 100-day campaign aims to further bridge the gap between the estimated and reported TB cases in the country. According to the latest Global TB Report, India had an estimated 28 lakh TB cases in 2023, with 25.2 lakh of those officially recorded.
- Officials involved with the campaign noted that several tools and strategies tested during the drive will now be adopted on a wider scale. Training programs are currently in progress to support this rollout.
- One of the major breakthroughs was the deployment of AI-powered portable X-ray devices, which allowed for TB detection without the immediate need for a doctor. These machines enabled minimally trained healthcare workers to carry out X-rays, leading to the discovery of many asymptomatic cases.
- Community involvement, or Jan Bhagidari, also played a crucial role, with participation from lawmakers, local leaders, administrators, and the general public helping drive the campaign’s success.
- In a recent review of the National TB Elimination Programme (NTEP), the Prime Minister emphasized analyzing TB case patterns by region and occupation. This approach, he said, could pinpoint vulnerable worker groups — such as those in construction, mining, and textile industries — for early detection and treatment.
- The Prime Minister also underscored the significance of cleanliness and community participation in fighting TB.
- India has committed to eradicating TB by the end of 2025 — five years ahead of the global deadline. The World Health Organization’s End TB Strategy for 2030 calls for a 90% reduction in TB deaths and an 80% cut in new infections compared to 2015 levels.
- To support this national goal, the government launched the 100-day TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan last December, targeting 347 high-priority districts across the country
|
Answer (A)
The tuberculosis vaccine, commonly known as the BCG vaccine (Bacillus Calmette–Guérin), was developed by the French scientists Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin between 1908 and 1921. They created this vaccine by attenuating (weakening) a strain of the bovine tuberculosis bacterium, Mycobacterium bovis, so that it could stimulate the immune system without causing the disease. The BCG vaccine is the only currently available vaccine for tuberculosis and is widely used across the world, especially in countries with a high prevalence of TB. It primarily protects children against severe forms of TB, such as tuberculosis meningitis and miliary TB. Other scientists mentioned in the options made significant contributions in related fields:
|
| Subject | Topic | Description |
| Polity | Citizenship | Citizenship Amendment Act |
| Polity | Special Provision for Scheduled Caste(SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) | Special Provision for Scheduled Caste(SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) |
| Economy | International Monetary Fund (IMF) | International Monetary Fund (IMF) |
| Environment | Evolution of Life | Evolution of Life |
|
UPSC EXAM NOTES will be conducting both Prelims and Mains exams every Sunday as part of the Integrated Mains and Prelims (IMPM) Program. This program provides a comprehensive approach to UPSC exam preparation, ensuring that candidates are well-prepared for both stages of the exam. Program Highlights:
Duration: The IMPM plan is a one-year program, ensuring continuous and structured preparation over 12 months. With regular testing and consistent study guidance, this program is designed to maximize your chances of success in the UPSC exams |