UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 8th July 2025 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly PDF Download

GS2/Governance

North Eastern Region District SDG Index Report (2023-24)

Why in News?

The second edition of the North Eastern Region (NER) District Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index Report for 2023-24 was recently released by NITI Aayog. This report assesses the performance of districts across the eight North Eastern states in relation to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Takeaways

• The SDG Index was developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MoDoNER) and with technical support from UNDP.
• It builds upon the momentum of the initial edition released on August 26, 2021.
• The index categorizes districts into four classifications: Achiever, Front Runner, Performer, and Aspirant based on their scores.
• This report serves as a vital tool for monitoring development progress and aids in informed decision-making at the district level.

Categories of Districts

• Achiever: Score of 100, indicating that all targets for identified indicators have been met.
• Front Runner: Score between 65 and 99, excluding 100.
• Performer: Score between 50 and 65, excluding 65.
• Aspirant: Score less than 50.

Significance of the Index

• The 2023-24 Index marks a significant advance in monitoring at the regional level, reflecting a commitment to addressing various development challenges.
• It emphasizes the importance of ensuring that no one is left behind in the region's development journey.
• The report contains detailed analyses and recommendations aimed at accelerating progress towards achieving the SDGs by 2030.

Key Findings of the Index

• The composite scores for the 121 districts range from 58.71 in Longding, Arunachal Pradesh, to 81.43 in Hnahthial, Mizoram.
• All districts in Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura have achieved Front Runner status, with no districts classified as Aspirant or Achiever.
• Mizoram has both the highest-scoring district (Hnahthial at 81.43) and the lowest-scoring district (Longding at 58.71) in the entire Northeast region.
• Mizoram shows the smallest score variation (5.5 points) between its highest and lowest districts, indicating consistent performance.
• Both Mizoram and Nagaland have notable scores but also exhibit some variation (ranges of 13.72 and 15.07, respectively).

This index serves as a crucial framework for evaluating and fostering sustainable development in the North Eastern region, aiming to ensure inclusive progress across social, economic, and environmental landscapes.

GS1/History & Culture

Ancient City of Penico

Why in News?

Archaeologists have recently uncovered a remarkable 3,500-year-old city named Penico in Peru, providing significant insights into ancient civilizations.

Key Takeaways

• Penico is a lost city that dates back to approximately 1,800 to 1,500 BC.
• It is located around 200 km north of Lima, Peru, at an altitude of 600 meters (1,970 feet).
• The city is thought to be a continuation of the Caral society, the oldest known civilization in the Americas.

Additional Details

• Geographical Context: Penico is situated near Caral, established around 3,000 BC in the Supe Valley, emphasizing its historical significance.
• Architectural Findings: Researchers have identified up to 18 structures, including ceremonial temples and residential complexes.
• Central Plaza: Notable for its sculptural reliefs, particularly depictions of the pututu, a conch shell trumpet.
• Cultural Artifacts: Clay sculptures of humans and animals, ceremonial objects, and intricate necklaces made from beads and seashells were discovered.
• Strategic Location: The height of the city’s structures suggests settlers chose this location to enhance the visibility and significance of their buildings while protecting against natural disasters.
• Trade Hub: Penico likely served as a crucial trading link between early Pacific coast communities and those in the Andes and Amazon basin.

The discovery of Penico not only sheds light on the architectural and cultural advancements of ancient societies but also highlights the interconnectedness of early civilizations across different regions.

GS2/Governance

Fostering a Commitment to Stop Maternal Deaths

Why in News?

The issue of maternal mortality in India has gained attention as the country experiences a decline in its Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR). However, significant regional disparities persist, particularly in certain states that continue to grapple with healthcare infrastructure and access problems.

Key Takeaways

• India's MMR has decreased, but certain states still face high rates of maternal deaths.
• Kerala exemplifies effective maternal healthcare with a notably low MMR.
• Regional disparities exist, especially in Empowered Action Group (EAG) states, which show higher MMRs.

Additional Details

• Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR): The ratio represents the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 live births. In India, MMR has fallen from 103 (2017-19) to 93 (2019-21), yet considerable differences remain between states.
• States like Kerala exhibit robust healthcare systems resulting in an MMR as low as 20, while others like Madhya Pradesh (175) and Assam (167) show alarming figures.
• Three Delays in Maternal Care:
  • Delay in Decision-Making: Families often fail to recognize danger signs during pregnancy, leading to delays in seeking help.
  • Delay in Reaching a Facility: Poor transportation options hinder timely access to skilled care.
  • Delay in Receiving Care: Even upon reaching a healthcare facility, delays in treatment due to staff shortages and lack of essential resources can lead to avoidable deaths.
• First Referral Units (FRUs): These are designated health facilities equipped to provide emergency obstetric and newborn care. The effectiveness of FRUs is hampered by staffing shortages and inadequate infrastructure.

To reduce maternal deaths, it is crucial to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, particularly in FRUs, ensure the availability of specialists, and implement effective transport systems. Learning from Kerala's model of maternal health can provide essential insights for improving the situation nationwide.

GS3/Environment

Barilius imphalensis: A New Discovery in Freshwater Fish

Why in News?

A new species of freshwater fish, named Barilius imphalensis, has been recently discovered in the Imphal River located in Manipur, India. This discovery highlights the rich biodiversity and ecological significance of the region.

Key Takeaways

• Barilius imphalensis is a newly identified species of freshwater fish.
• It is locally known as Ngawa in the Meitei language.
• The fish belongs to the Danionidae family and Chedrinae subfamily.
• It is endemic to the Imphal River and exhibits marked differences from other known species in India and Southeast Asia.

Additional Details

• Habitat: Barilius imphalensis thrives in clear, shallow waters, typically ranging from 3 to 5 feet in depth. Its environment features gravel and cobble beds, complemented by lush riverbank vegetation.
• Distinctive Features: This species is characterized by the absence of barbels (sensory whisker-like organs), a series of short blue vertical bars on its body, and tiny tubercles (small bumps) on its snout and jaw.
• The fish possesses a complete lateral line comprising 41 scales, which is crucial for sensing movement and vibrations in water.

The discovery of Barilius imphalensis not only enriches the biodiversity of the Imphal River but also underscores the ecological importance of freshwater habitats in the region.

GS3/Defence & Security

What is the Defence Accounts Department (DAD)?

Why in News?

The Defence Minister recently highlighted the crucial role of the Defence Accounts Department (DAD) in improving the operational readiness and financial agility of the Armed Forces during the Controllers' Conference 2025 held in New Delhi.

Key Takeaways

• The DAD operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Defence.
• It is led by the Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA).
• The department's primary responsibilities include audit, financial advice, payment, and accounting for the Armed Forces.

Additional Details

• Functions of DAD:
  • Handles bills for supplies, services, construction, repairs, pay, allowances, and pensions for defence personnel and civilians.
  • Conducts audits of cash and store accounts for all organizations under the Ministry of Defence.
• Geographical Spread: The DAD has a wide network of 1,110 officescatering to the needs of the Indian Defence Services, including the Army, Air Force, Navy, and other organizations under the Ministry of Defence, such as:
  • Defence Ordnance Factories (41)
  • DRDO Laboratories/Projects (50)
  • Coast Guard, DGQA, DGBR, DGNCC, DG Defence Estates, and Canteen Stores Department (CSD).
• Responsibilities of CGDA: Acts as the principal accounting officer for the Ministry of Defence, providing necessary information for Appropriation Accounts and preparing Annual Consolidated Accounts of Defence Services Receipts & Charges.
• Historical Background:
  • The DAD is one of the oldest departments within the Government of India, with origins tracing back to Military Pay Masters under the East India Company in 1750.
  • The title and structure of the department evolved through various stages, formally becoming the Defence Accounts Department on October 1st, 1951.

In conclusion, the Defence Accounts Department plays a pivotal role in the financial management and operational support of the Indian Armed Forces, ensuring efficient accounting and auditing processes that are crucial for national security and defense preparedness.

GS1/History & Culture

Sheesh Mahal Restoration

Why in News?

The Sheesh Mahal, a historical palace from the Mughal era, located in Shalimar Bagh, North Delhi, has recently undergone restoration and was unveiled by the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism.

Key Takeaways

• Constructed in 1653 by Izz-un-Nisha Begum, the wife of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
• Modeled after the famous Shalimar Bagh in Kashmir, serving as a royal retreat.
• Originally built with bricks and red sandstone, featuring distinct architectural elements.
• Notable historical significance, including Aurangzeb's coronation in 1658.
• Declared a monument of national importance in 1983, with ongoing preservation efforts by ASI.

Additional Details

• Construction Details: The palace includes entry gates on the east and west, leading to a central hall with compartments on each side. The main building features a Baradari with a water channel.
• Artistic Significance: The well-preserved chambers exhibit mirror work and paintings in the styles of Kangra and Rajasthani qalam, depicting the poetic works of Keshav, Surdas, and Bihari.
• The adjacent red sandstone structure is believed to have functioned as a hamam (public bathhouse).

The restoration of Sheesh Mahal not only revitalizes a significant piece of Mughal architecture but also enhances our understanding of India's rich cultural heritage.

GS3/Economy

Invisible Exports of India

Why in News?

As of 2024–25, India's "invisibles" trade, which includes services exports and private money transfers, has not only surpassed its merchandise exports but has also become a crucial stabilizer of the current account deficit.

Key Takeaways

• Invisible exports now exceed merchandise exports.
• They play a vital role in stabilizing the current account deficit.

Additional Details

• What are Invisible Exports: Invisible exports refer to international trade in services and income flows that do not involve physical goods crossing borders. These transactions are primarily digital or financial.
• Types of Services Included: This includes a wide range of service-based exports such as IT services, financial consulting, legal and accounting services, research and development (R&D), and business process outsourcing (BPO) operations.
• Inclusion of Remittances: Private remittances, which are funds sent home by Indians working abroad, are counted as part of India's Balance of Payments (BoP).
• BoP Classification: These transactions are recorded under the Current Account of the BoP, specifically in the subcategories of services, primary income, and secondary income.
• Characteristics: Unlike physical exports, invisible exports do not require shipping, face fewer trade barriers, and rely heavily on skilled human capital.
• Leading Examples: Key invisible exports from India include software and IT-enabled services (from firms like Infosys, TCS, and Wipro), Global Capability Centers, financial and legal services, as well as education, tourism, and medical services.
• Role of Migrant Remittances: Remittances from Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and migrant workers are crucial and constitute one of the largest components of India's invisible receipts.
• Their Contribution in Trade: Gross invisible receipts reached $576.5 billion, surpassing merchandise exports of $441.8 billion. Services alone accounted for $387.5 billion, a significant increase from $26.9 billion in 2003-04, while remittances contributed $135.4 billion.
• Buffer Against Trade Deficits: While the merchandise trade deficit stood at $287.2 billion, a net invisible surplus of $263.8 billion helped reduce the overall current account deficit to just $23.4 billion, providing essential stability.
• Resilience Across Global Crises: Invisible exports have shown resilience during major disruptions, such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, proving more robust than merchandise trade.
• Human Capital-Driven Growth: Services exports are driven by India’s skilled workforce rather than physical infrastructure, allowing India to evolve as the "office of the world".
• Less Policy Dependence: The growth of invisible exports has occurred largely without heavy government incentives or trade agreements, with India still lacking strong service-sector provisions in its major trade deals.

In conclusion, India's invisible exports have become a vital component of its economy, contributing significantly to the current account stability and showcasing the country's potential in the global service sector.

GS3/Science and Technology

Helgoland: The Birthplace of Quantum Theory

Why in News?

Helgoland, a small island in the German Bay of the North Sea, is recognized by physicists as a significant location in the history of quantum mechanics. It was here that Werner Heisenberg developed groundbreaking ideas that shaped modern physics.

Key Takeaways

• Helgoland is a tiny island characterized by red sandstone cliffs.
• It was historically a naval fortress and is now a center for quantum theory.

Additional Details

• Werner Heisenberg: In June 1925, while suffering from hay fever in Göttingen, Heisenberg retreated to Helgoland. There, he shifted his focus from the classical model of electrons orbiting an atom’s nucleus to a new approach based solely on experimental data, particularly the frequencies and strengths of light emitted or absorbed by atoms.
• To organize this data, Heisenberg created grids known as matrices. The multiplication of these matrices was significant; the order of multiplication mattered, leading to the realization that position multiplied by momentum is not equal to momentum multiplied by position. This insight resulted in equations that accurately described the spectrum of hydrogen atoms.

Through these developments, Heisenberg laid the groundwork for what would become known as matrix mechanics, the first complete version of quantum mechanics.

GS2/International Relations

BRICS Summit 2025 - Advancing Global South Cooperation for Inclusive and Sustainable Governance

Why in News?

The 17th BRICS Summit was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, focusing on the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for a More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” This summit concluded with the ‘Rio de Janeiro Declaration’, marking a significant shift towards inclusivity and enhanced South-South cooperation.

Key Takeaways

• Reaffirmation of BRICS principles of mutual respect, sovereign equality, democracy, and inclusiveness.
• Expansion of BRICS membership with Indonesia joining as a full member and the addition of 11 new partner countries.
• Launch of key initiatives on climate finance, artificial intelligence governance, and health equity.

Additional Details

• BRICS Membership Expansion: Indonesia was formally welcomed as a full member, along with Belarus, Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Nigeria, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Uganda, and Uzbekistan as new partners, reflecting a growing multipolar world order.
• Commitment to Reform: The summit underscored the need for equitable and effective multilateralism, supporting global initiatives such as the UN Summit of the Future's “Pact for the Future.”
• Economic Cooperation: The Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership 2025 was reviewed, with an upcoming 2030 strategy focusing on digital economy and sustainable development.
• Climate Change Initiatives: Strong support for the Paris Agreement and a commitment to climate adaptation and mitigation efforts were emphasized.

The BRICS Summit 2025 represents a pivotal moment in promoting Global South-led multilateralism, reinforcing BRICS as a credible alternative to Western-dominated institutions. India's proactive leadership and its upcoming presidency in 2026 highlight its growing influence in shaping a South-led multilateral order.

GS3/Environment

Kashmir’s Unprecedented Heatwave Explained

Why in News?

On July 5, the Kashmir Valley recorded its highest day temperature in more than 70 years, with Pahalgam experiencing its hottest day ever. This extreme heat follows the valley's hottest June in nearly 50 years, marking a significant shift in the region's climate patterns.

Key Takeaways

• Kashmir experienced its hottest June in 50 years, with temperatures averaging 3°C above normal.
• Srinagar recorded a temperature of 37.4°C on July 5, the highest in over 70 years.
• Climate change and urbanization are key factors contributing to rising temperatures.

Additional Details

• Kashmir’s Climate: The region is characterized by four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring and autumn generally feature moderate temperatures, while winters can be harsh with significant snowfall. Summers are relatively mild, but recent trends show a notable rise in temperatures.
• Persistent Heat: Unlike previous years where high temperatures were short-lived, 2024 has seen consistently elevated temperatures, indicating a deeper climatic shift.
• Factors Behind Rising Temperatures: Global warming is the primary driver of increased baseline temperatures. Additionally, urban heat islands, particularly in cities like Srinagar, are exacerbating the situation due to rapid urbanization, loss of vegetation, and water bodies.
• Urban Heat Islands (UHIs): These are urban zones that are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas. The UHI effect in Kashmir is intensified by hard surfaces that absorb and radiate heat, combined with limited green spaces.

The unprecedented heatwave in Kashmir serves as a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change and urbanization. As the region continues to experience these shifts, understanding and addressing the underlying causes becomes increasingly important for environmental stability and public health.

GS3/Environment

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve

Why in News?

Recent reports indicate a remarkable increase in the Leopard population within the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR), with growth recorded at 198.91% since 2022.

Key Takeaways

• The Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is located on the Indo-Nepal border in Uttar Pradesh.
• It comprises the Dudhwa National Park and two additional sanctuaries: Kishanpur and Katerniaghat.
• It features a typical Tarai-Bhabar habitat of the upper Gangetic plains.

Additional Details

• Location: Dudhwa Tiger Reserve is situated in the district of Lakhimpur-Kheri, Uttar Pradesh, bordering Nepal. It includes the Dudhwa National Park along with the Kishanpur and Katerniaghat sanctuaries.
• Topography: The reserve is characterized by a Tarai-Bhabar habitat, typical of the upper Gangetic plains Biogeographic province.
• Rivers: Major rivers including the Sharda, Geruwa, Suheli, and Mohana flow through this reserve, all tributaries of the Ghagra River.
• Vegetation: The vegetation is classified as North Indian Moist Deciduous, featuring some of the finest examples of Sal forests (Shorea robusta) in India.
• Flora: The flora includes Sal forest along with associated species like Terminalia alata (Asna), Lagerstroemia parviflora (Asidha), and Adina cordifolia (Haldu).
• Fauna: The fauna consists of diverse species including Guldar, Tiger, Fishing Cat, Monkeys, Langurs, Mongoose, and Jackals, among others.

In conclusion, the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve serves as a crucial habitat for a variety of species, with a significant increase in the Leopard population reflecting the successful conservation efforts in the region.

GS3/Science and Technology

1000 Quakes Rattle Japan’s Tokara Islands

Why in News?

Japan has experienced a significant increase in seismic activity, recording over 1,000 tremors within a two-week period near the Tokara Islands. This surge signals heightened geological instability in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Japan's geographical position makes it highly susceptible to earthquakes.
• The Tokara Islands are part of a volcanic archipelago that is strategically important due to regional tensions.

Additional Details

• Tectonic Plate Convergence: Japan is located at the intersection of four major tectonic plates: the Pacific, Philippine Sea, Eurasian, and North American plates, which continuously collide and shift, leading to frequent seismic events.
• Subduction Zones: The oceanic plates, namely the Pacific and Philippine Sea plates, are being forced under continental plates, resulting in immense geological stress that is released as earthquakes.
• Pacific Ring of Fire: Japan is situated within this active seismic zone that encircles the Pacific Ocean and is responsible for approximately 90% of the world's earthquakes.
• Volcanic and Fault Line Density: The nation is home to about 10% of the world’s active volcanoes and a multitude of fault lines, increasing its vulnerability to seismic activity.

The Tokara Islands, part of the Ryukyu archipelago in southern Japan, consist of 12 islands, of which 7 are inhabited, including Nakanoshima, Takarajima, and Kodakarajima. These islands are strategically important due to increasing geopolitical tensions in the East China Sea, notably involving China and Taiwan. Recent defense policies have emphasized the need to fortify the Tokara and Nansei Islands for enhanced surveillance in the region.

In historical context, Japan has faced significant challenges from earthquakes, including a notable event in 2007 that resulted in massive radioactive water leakage from the world's largest nuclear plant. This incident spotlighted the country’s seismic risks and their implications for safety and energy security.

Question:

In the year 2007, an earthquake led to massive radioactive water leakage in the largest nuclear plant in the world. In which country did it occur?

• (a) Germany
• (b) Canada
• (c) Japan*
• (d) USA