About Prajna System:

• It is an indigenously developed satellite imaging system to enhance the real-time decision support for the security agencies.
• The AI-enabled system was developed by the DRDO's Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR).
• It is intended to strengthen the country’s internal security by monitoring sensitive regions and aiding counter-terrorism operations.
• The system integrates satellite imagery with advanced AI-driven analytics to provide actionable insights in real time.
• It is designed to significantly improve situational awareness and support faster, more accurate decision-making during critical operations.
• By leveraging artificial intelligence, it can process vast volumes of satellite data, identify patterns and flag anomalies that may otherwise go unnoticed through conventional methods.

About Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary:

• It is located in the Udupi district of Karnataka.
• The sanctuary is named after the presiding deity of the Kollur Mookambika Temple, which is located within its boundaries.
• It forms a vital connecting link between Someshwara Wildlife Sanctuary located on the southern side and Sharavathi Wildlife Sanctuary located on the northern side.
• At the heart of the sanctuary lies the revered Kodachadri Peak, often referred to as a “botanical paradise.”
• The sanctuary boasts two significant rivers – River Chakra and River Souparnika.
• It is home to many beautiful waterfalls such as Koosalli waterfalls and Belkal Theertha waterfalls.
• Vegetation: The vegetation type is a mix of evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous forests covering the steep slopes typical of the Western Ghats Mountains.
• Flora:
  • Some of the eminent tree species are found in this region, including trees like Dipterocarpus Indicus, Calophyllum Tomentosum, and Hopea Parviflora.
  • A rare species of the climber, Coscinium Fenestratum, is found here.
  • Small patches of teak plantations are also there.
• Fauna: It is known for the presence of rare animals like the slender loris and lion-tailed macaque, alongside larger wildlife such as tiger, leopard, sloth bear, sambar deer, chital, wild pig, barking deer, gaur, porcupine, and otter.

About Aspero:

• It is a late preceramic archaeological site associated with the Norte Chico civilization (also called Caral-Supe civilization), one of the oldest known civilizations in the Americas.
• It is located in Peru on the right bank of the Supe River.
• Once a major fishing centre for the city of Caral, Áspero was inhabited throughout the Late Archaic period from before 3000 BC to approximately 1800 BC.
• It was a major urban center with monumental architecture, including large platform mounds and sunken circular plazas, serving as a hub for trade, agriculture, and religious rituals.

About Druzhba Pipeline:

• The Druzhba Pipeline, also known as the Friendship Pipeline, is one of the biggest crude oil pipeline networks in the world.
• It was built in the 1960s to supply oil from the USSR to countries in Europe.
• Today, it is the largest principal artery for the transportation of Russian (and Kazakh) oil across Europe.
• The official beginning of the Druzhba network is in Almetyevsk in the Russian Federation, where pipelines carrying crude oil from Siberia, the Urals, and the Caspian Sea meet.
• Druzhba runs to Mozyr in Belarus, where it splits into a northern and a southern branch.
• The northern branch continues via Belarus and Poland to Germany.
• The southern branch runs through Ukraine, splitting in Uzhgorod, into Druzhba 1, continuing to Slovakia (where it splits again and goes to the Czech Republic in one branch and Hungary in another), and Druzhba 2, continuing to Hungary.

About Stauranthera aureoglossa:

• It is a new plant species.
• It was discovered in the dense, mid-elevation evergreen forests of the Kamle and Upper Subansiri districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
• It is a perennial herb clinging to damp rocks and soil right besides flowing streams and rivulets.
• The plant stands out from its closest relatives with a distinct, bell-shaped, bluish-purple flower.
• Unlike similar species, its flower lacks a tubular projection called a spur at its base.
• Instead, it features a raised, bumpy, yellow patch inside the lower lip of its petals.
• This striking feature inspired its new scientific name, with “aureoglossa” translating to the golden-yellow, tongue-like appendage seen on the flower.
• It has diamond- or spear-shaped leaves.
• Because their fragile streamside habitats are being actively damaged by logging, landslides, and road-widening projects, the scientists have provisionally classified this rare, golden-tongued herb as an endangered species.

About Germany:

• Location: It is located in central Europe.
• Bordering Countries: Denmark (North), Poland and Czech Republic (East), Austria and Switzerland (South), and France, Luxemburg, Belgium and Netherlands (West).
• Maritime Border: It is bounded by the North Sea in the northwest and by the Baltic Sea in the northeast.
• Capital City: Berlin
• Geographical Features of Germany:
  • Climate: It is favored with a generally temperate climate.
  • Major mountain Ranges: Alps & Bavarian highlands
  • Major River: The most substantial rivers in Germany are the Rhine, the Elbe, and the Danube.
  • Lake: Lake Constance is the largest freshwater lake, bordering Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
  • Natural Resources: Germany possesses a wide range of natural resources, including lignite, coal, natural gas, iron ore, copper, nickel, potash, uranium.

About Shekha Jheel Bird Sanctuary:

• Location: It is located in Uttar Pradesh.
• It is a typical monsoonal wetland of the Gangetic plains.
• It is a fresh water perennial water body that came into existence after the formation of the Upper Ganges Canal in 1852 which flows adjacent to the lake. 
• It acts as a crucial stopover on the Central Asian Flyway.
• Vegetation:
  • The submerged vegetation consists of Hydrilla verticillata, Ceratophyllum demersum, Vallisneria spiralis, Potamogeton crispus and Najas.
  • Free-floating vegetation consists of Salvinia and Azolla, Eichhornia crassipes. Rooted floating vegetation includes Nymphoides cristata and Nymphoides indica.
• Fauna: It is providing a vital habitat for migratory birds such as the Bar-headed Goose, Painted Stork and various ducks during the winter season. 

What are Ramsar Sites?

• It is a wetland recognized under the Ramsar Convention (1971) for its international importance in conserving biodiversity and sustaining ecological balance.
• These wetlands provide critical habitats for migratory birds, endangered species, and unique flora and fauna.
• They help in groundwater recharge, flood control, and climate regulation, while supporting local livelihoods like fishing and agriculture.
• India currently has 99 Ramsar Sites spread across 28 states and union territories.

About Jamun:

• It is an important indigenous minor fruit of commercial value.
• It is also known as black plum, Indian black cherry, Ram jamun etc. in different parts of India.
• Distribution: The original home of jamun is India and also found in Thailand, Philippines, Madagascar and some other countries.
  • In India, the maximum numbers of jamun trees are found scattered throughout the tropical and subtropical regions.
  • It also occurs in the lower range of the Himalayas.
• Required Climatic Conditions for Jamun
  • Soil: It can be grown on a wide range of soils - calcareous, saline sodic soils and marshy areas.
  • Jamun can grow well under salinity and waterlogged conditions too.
  • Climate: It prefers to grow under tropical and subtropical climate.
  • It requires dry weather at the time off towering and fruit setting.
  • In subtropical areas, early rain is considered to be beneficial for ripening of fruits and proper development of its size, colour and taste.

About United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific:

• It is the most inclusive intergovernmental platform in the Asia-Pacific region.
• It was established in 1947.
• Mandate: To promote economic and social development in the Asian and Pacific region by fostering cooperation between its members and associate members.
• Members: The Commission promotes cooperation among its 53 member States and 9 associate members in pursuit of solutions to sustainable development challenges.
• It is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations.
• Functions: One of the main functions of UNESCAP is to promote economic and social development through regional and subregional cooperation and integration.
• It carries out work in the areas like
  • Macroeconomic Policy, Poverty Reduction and Financing for Development, Trade, Investment and Innovation, Transport, Environment and Development, Information and Communications Technology and Disaster Risk Reduction and Social Development etc.
• Headquarters: Bangkok, Thailand

About Truck Mounted Attenuator:

• Truck Mounted Attenuators are specially designed impact-absorbing safety devices that play a critical role in protecting both workers and road users.
• Functions of Truck Mounted Attenuators
  • In the event of a collision, these systems absorb and dissipate kinetic energy, reducing the force of impact. This helps:
    • Protect maintenance crews working ahead of the vehicle
    • Reduce injury risks for occupants of the impacting vehicle
    • Minimize the severity of accidents in highway work zones
    • In many ways, TMAs act like an invisible shield — standing between danger and human life.
  • Early warnings that prevent accidents: These TMAs are equipped with high-intensity wig-wag warning lights, designed to flash in alternating patterns that form directional arrows.
    • These signals provide clear and timely warnings to approaching drivers.
    • It is especially valuable on high-speed highway corridors, during night-time operations and in foggy or low-visibility conditions
  • By alerting drivers well in advance, these systems help prevent collisions before they occur.

About International Air Transport Association (IATA):

• It is the global trade association of airlines (for both freight and passenger carriers) that regulates the aviation industry by developing standards, procedures, and practices.
• It was founded in Havana, Cuba, on 19 April 1945.
• It is the successor to the International Air Traffic Association, founded in the Hague in 1919.
• It was created with the goal of promoting cooperation among airlines, as well as facilitating the development of regulations and procedures that ensure the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of air transport.
• Although the formal regulation of international civil aviation is the responsibility of bodies such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), IATA acts primarily as an industry association that develops operational standards and best practices widely adopted by airlines and logistics operators.
• In practice, its activity focuses on three main areas:
  • Standardization of processes and documentation used in international air transport.
  • Development of technical regulations for the transport of goods, especially in sensitive areas such as dangerous goods or perishable products.
  • Financial cooperation and settlement systems that enable airlines to operate global transportation networks.
• Members:
  • At its founding, IATA had 57 members from 31 nations, mostly in Europe and North America.
  • Presently, it has airline members in 126 countries and territories, comprising around 82 percent of total air traffic.
• Head Office: Montreal, Canada.

About Umiam Lake:

• Umiam Lake, also known as Barapani Lake, is a man-made reservoir in Meghalaya.
• It is encircled by East Khasi hills.
• History:
  • It was created in 1965 as part of the Umiam Umtru Hydroelectric Power Project, which was the first hydroelectric project in Northeast India.
  • The project was initiated by the Assam State Electricity Board (ASEB) with the assistance of the Government of India and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).
  • The project involved the construction of a dam across the Umiam River, which is a tributary of the Brahmaputra
• Source of Water: The confluence of the two streams, Umkhrah and Umshvrpi, forms the Wah Ro-ro stream in the northwest of the town and joins River Umiam, the main source of water for the lake.
• It is a popular venue for the water sport and adventure facilities.

About Scarlet Fever:

• Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is a bacterial infection caused by group A streptococci bacteria — the same type of bacteria that cause 'strep throat', skin infections (impetigo), wound infections, and rheumatic fever.
• It is most common in children 5 to 15 years of age.
• If left untreated, scarlet fever can result in more-serious conditions that affect the heart, kidneys, and other parts of the body.

Is Scarlet Fever Contagious?

• Yes, the bacteria that cause scarlet fever are contagious (spread from person to person).
• People who are infected can easily spread it by coughing or sneezing, which sends tiny droplets that contain the bacteria into the air.
• People can get scarlet fever more than once.
• There is no vaccine to prevent scarlet fever.

• Treatment:
  • It is treated with antibiotics (usually penicillin).
  • The fever will usually subside within 24 hours of starting antibiotics, but it is important to take the whole course to completely clear the germs from your throat.

About Salween River:

• The Salween River, also known as the Nu River in China and Thanlwin River in Myanmar, is a transboundary river in Asia, shared by China, Thailand, and Myanmar.
• It is the longest undammed/free-flowing river in mainland Southeast Asia.
• Course:
  • The Salween River originates in the Tibetan range of the eastern Himalayas.
  • The river passes through western Yunnan, China, Myanmar, and then forms the border between Myanmar and Thailand before it turns west and drains into the Gulf of Martaban in the Andaman Sea.
• The upstream portion of the Salween flows in parallel with two of Asia’s mightiest rivers, the Mekong and the Yangtze.
• The location where three gorges carved by these rivers come together – the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan – was designated as a World Heritage Site by the UN in 2003.
• Since Salween flows primarily through rugged terrain with dangerous rapids along its course, only small parts of the river are navigable by large water vessels.
• Its major economic use is in floating teak logs from the forests of southeastern Myanmar to the sea.
• Some of the major ethnic groups in the region include the Shan, Karen (or Kayin), Karenni (or  Kayah),  Wa,  Lisu,  Lahu,  Kokang,  Akha,  and  Hmong.

About R-37M Missile:

• The R-37M missile, known by its NATO reporting name AA-13 Axehead, is a long-range air-to-air missile developed by Russia.
• It is designed to eliminate enemy fighter jets and drones beyond visual range (BVR).
• People often call the R-37M an “AWACS Killer” because it can go after large and important enemy aircraft. These include radar planes like AWACS, refuelling tankers, and even jamming aircraft that help enemy fighters.
• Indian engineers expect the missile to fit smoothly onto the IAF’s Su-30MKI fighters because the weapon is already approved for the Russian Su-30SM, which is almost the same type of aircraft.
• Features:
  • R-37M carries a 60-kilogram high-explosive fragmentation warhead intended for large airborne targets.
  • Its guidance architecture combines inertial navigation, mid-course data-link updates, and active radar homing during the terminal phase, allowing the launching aircraft to adjust targeting information dynamically.
  • It also employs a lofted trajectory profile, enabling the missile to climb before descending toward its target, thereby conserving energy and extending effective engagement range.
  • It features a jettisonable rocket booster that allows it to achieve a range of 300 to 400 kilometers, making it one of the longest-reaching air-to-air missiles in service globally.
  • Its speed can reach hypersonic levels, up to Mach 6, which is crucial for intercepting fast-moving targets. It is the world’s fastest known air-to-air missile class.

About SMILE Scheme:

• The Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise scheme (SMILE) scheme is a Central Sector Scheme launched on 12th February 2022.
• It includes two sub-schemes:
  • Central Sector Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation for Welfare of Transgender Persons’
  • ‘Central Sector Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of Begging’.
• This umbrella scheme covers comprehensive measures including welfare measures for both transgender persons and persons who are engaged in the act of
• Features of the SMILE Scheme
  • Scholarships: It provides Scholarships for Transgender Students studying in IX and tillpost-graduation to enable them to complete their education.
  • Skill Development and Livelihood: It has provisions for Skill Development and Livelihood under the PM-DAKSH scheme.
  • Composite Medical Health: Through Composite Medical Health it provides a comprehensive package in convergence with PM-JAY supporting Gender-Reaffirmation surgeries through selected hospitals.
  • Garima Greh: It provides shelter homes provide safe, dignified accommodation to transgender persons who face homelessness as a result of family rejection or social stigma.
  • Transgender Protection Cells: These cells in each state will monitor cases of offences and to ensure timely registration, investigation and prosecution of offences.
  • National Portal & Helpline: It will provide necessary information and solutions to the Transgender community and the people engaged in the act of begging when needed.

About Jute Crop:

• The Jute crop is the second most important fibre crop in India after cotton.
• It is a crop of humid tropical climates.
• Required Climatic Conditions:
  • Climate: Relative humidity between 40-90%.
  • Soil: It can grow in wide range of soil but fertile loamy alluvial soil is better suitable.
  • Temperature: Between 17° C and 41°C
  • Rain: It requires well distributed rainfall over 1200 mm which is ideal for cultivation and growth of jute.
  • Generally sown in February and harvested in October; the crop matures in 8–10 months.
• Jute Distribution in India:
  • Over 99% of India’s jute is produced in five states including West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
  • West Bengal (81% share), Bihar, Assam, Odisha and Andhra Pradesh (delta regions are important contributors)
• Uses: It is used in multiple ways like for making ropes, gunny bags, rugs, carpets, tarpaulins and many other products.

About Japan:

• Location: It is an island nation in East Asia, situated in the Northwestern Pacific Ocean.
• Maritime borders: It is bordered by the Pacific Ocean (East), Sea of Okhotsk (North), Sea of Japan (West East) and East China Sea (Southwest).
• Capital City: Tokyo
• Geographical Features of Japan:
  • Climate: It ranges from subarctic in the north to humid subtropical in the south.
  • Main Islands (north to south): Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu.
  • Terrain: Over 80% mountainous, with rugged terrain.
  • Volcanic activity: It is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire – a major zone of earthquakes and active volcanoes.
  • Highest peak: Mount Fuji (3,776 m), which is a strato volcano.
  • Major mountain ranges: Japanese Alps.
  • Major rivers: Shinano River (longest), Tone River, Kiso River.
  • Natural Resources: Coal, iron ore, zinc, lead, copper, sulfur, gold, and silver.

About Vishwa Sutra Initiative:

• It has been developed by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handlooms) in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology.
• Aim: It aims to present Indian handlooms in a contemporary global design framework.
• Under this initiative, 30 distinct handloom weaves from across the country have been brought together, each representing a different state.
• These weaves have been creatively reinterpreted with design inspirations drawn from 30 countries, reflecting diverse cultures and modern fashion sensibilities.
• It also reflects the depth and continuity of India’s handloom traditions—techniques preserved and refined across generations
  • Example: Odisha Ikat with Greek forms, Kanchipuram with Norwegian lines, Muga with Egyptian elements, Patola with Spanish influences, and Banarasi with UAE-inspired ensembles.
• Significance:
  • Vocal for Local to Global: It reflects the Government of India’s commitment to transforming traditional industries into globally competitive sectors.
  • 5F framework: It supports Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign.

About Market Intervention Scheme:

• It is a component of the Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA).
• It is implemented on the request of the State/UT Government for the procurement of various perishable agricultural commodities such as Tomato, Onion and Potato etc. for which Minimum Support Price (MSP) is not fixed.
• Objective: To intervene the market to protect the growers of their commodities from making distress sale in the event of a bumper crop during the peak arrival period when the prices tend to fall below economic levels and cost of production.
• Pattern of Assistance: The amount of loss is shared on 50:50 basis between the Central government and the State government (on 75:25 basis in case of North-Eastern States)
• Implementation: By Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare 
• MIS will be implemented only when:
  • There is a minimum reduction of 10% in the prevailing market price as compared to the previous normal year.
  • The procurement/coverage limit of production quantity of crops is 25 percent.

About Colorado River

• It is a major river of North America.
• Origin: It rises in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, U.S.
• It empties into the Gulf of California in northwestern Mexico.
• It flows through seven S. states and two Mexican states.
• The river drains a vast arid and semiarid sector of the North American continent.
• It is often referred to as the “Lifeline of the Southwest.”
• Lakes: It forms several major reservoirs, including Lake Mead and Lake Powell.
• International boundary: Colorado forms an international boundary between Arizona (US) and Mexico.
• Tributaries: The Colorado River has several tributaries, including Green, Gunnison, San Juan, Dolores, Little Colorado, Gila, and Virgin Rivers.
• One of the Colorado River’s most famous features is the Grand Canyon, which it carved over millions of years.
• This breathtaking landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction.
• The river also flows through Canyonlands National Park and Horseshoe Bend in Arizona.

About Anaimalai Tiger Reserve:

• Location: It is located in the Anamalai Hills of Pollachi and Coimbatore District of Tamil Nadu.
• It lies south of the Palakkad gap in the Southern Western Ghats. 
• It is surrounded by the Parambikulum Tiger Reserve on the east, Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, and Eravikulum National Park on the southwestern side.
• The reserve is also surrounded by the Nenmara, Vazhachal, Malayattur, and Marayur reserved forests of Kerala.
• It was declared a tiger reserve in the year 2007.
• It is inhabited by six indigenous communities, Kadar, Muduvar, Malasar, Malai malasar, Eravalar and Pulayar.
• Vegetation: It supports diverse habitat types, viz. Wet evergreen forests, semi-evergreen forests, moist deciduous, dry deciduous, dry thorn, and shola forests. Other unique habitats like montane grasslands, savannah and marshy grasslands are also present.
• Flora: The reserve is rich in wild relatives of cultivated species like mango, jackfruit, wild plantain, ginger (Zingiber officinale), turmeric, pepper (Piper longum), cardamom, etc.
• Fauna: The important wild animals of the reserve include: Tiger, Asiatic elephant, Sambar, Spotted deer, Barking deer, Jackal, Leopard, Jungle cat, etc.

About Bulgaria:

• Location: It is located in the south eastern region of the European continent, occupying the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula.
• Bordering Countries: It is bordered by 5 countries: by Romania in the north; by Turkey and Greece in the south; by North Macedonia in the southwest and by Serbia in the west.
• Maritime Border: It is bounded by the Black Sea in the east.
• Capital City: Sofia
• Geographical Features of Bulgaria:
  • Climate: Most of Bulgaria has a moderate continental climate, which is tempered by Mediterranean influences in the south. 
  • Mountain Ranges: The Balkan Mountains cut across the central part of the country, while the Rhodope Mountains run through southern Bulgaria, along its border with Greece.
  • Highest Point: Musala Mt (at 9,594 ft.) which is located in the Rila Mountains.
  • Major Rivers: Major rivers include the Danube River, Iskur, Maritsa, Struma, Tundzha and Yantra rivers.
  • Natural Resources: Bauxite, Copper, lead, zinc, coal etc.

About Muthuvan Tribe:

• The Muthuvans, or Mudugars, live in the Western Ghats mountains in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• The Muthuvan language is a special language spoken by the Muthuvan people. It belongs to the Dravidian language family.
• There are two different groups among the Muthuvan, and they speak slightly different dialects. Hence, they call each other Malayalam Muthuvan and Pandi Muthuvan.
• They are known for coexisting with the wildlife with their traditional knowledge and understanding of hills.
• They have expertise in traditional medicines, which are very effective, and these medicines and the medicine men are confidentially preserved and passed on to the generations.
• Social Organization:
  • The Muthuvan have six clans known as Koottams. Each koottam is again divided into sub-clans.
  • The functions of these divisions are mainly for marriage alliances, to keep up the social status, and to indicate descent and ancestry.
  • The Muthuvan adhere to community endogamy and clan exogamy.
  • These tribal people follow a unique system of governance called the ‘Kani System’.
  • The law and order in the community is handled by a council of elders under the leadership of the Kani, the headman.
  • The elders select the kani. They have various penal codes for breaking their traditions and moral standards.
• Religion and Beliefs:
  • They are animists and spirit worshippers and also worship the forest gods.
  • Nowadays, the Hindu gods and goddesses of the plains are also being worshipped, one of the effects of cultural infiltration.
• Occupation:
  • Virippukrishi (a form of shifting cultivation) is their traditional means of livelihood, and they cultivate a wide variety of food grains that are used only for consumption.
  • Ragi (Little Millet), Maize (Sorghum), Thina (Italian Millet), Varagu, Chama Rice, Tomato, Carrot, Sweet Potato, Potato, Cheeni Vala, Toppi, Mocha, etc., are principal food crops cultivated by the Muthuvan community.

About Pelusium:

• Pelusium, located at the easternmost mouth of the Nile in Egypt, is an ancient city known for its historical significance and cultural heritage.
• It lies southeast of Port Said, in the Sinai Peninsula.
• Originally called Sainu and Per-Amun, after its principal deity, Pelusium became a vital fortress and customs post on the border with Judaea during Pharaonic times.
• The city was particularly famous for its flax production.
• It witnessed several notable military events, including Cambyses' conquest in 525 BC (Battle of Pelusium, in which Persian king Cambyses II defeated Pharaoh Psamtik III’s Egyptian army) ,and later sieges involving Athenian assistance and attacks from various rulers, such as Artaxerxes III and the Seleucid king Antiochus IV.
• After Alexander the Great's death, Pelusium served as an important customs station under the Ptolemies (a Greek (Macedonian) dynasty that ruled Egypt).
• It was also the site of significant conflict during the Roman period, particularly during the rise of Octavian (Augustus) following the defeat of Antony and Cleopatra.
• Under the later Roman Empire, Pelusium was incorporated into the province of Augustamnica, affirming its enduring importance in the region’s history.

About Amber Fort:

• Amber Fort, also known as Amer Fort, is located in Amer in Rajasthan.
• It was constructed atop a hill. The fort was strategically situated on the Aravalli Range, providing a commanding view of the surrounding region.
• It was originally built by Raja Man Singh I, the Kachwaha Rajput ruler, in the late 16th century.
  • Man Singh was one of the trusted generals of Emperor Akbar and one among the Navaratnas of his court.
• Prior to shifting their capital to Jaipur, Amer was the capital of the Kachhwaha Rajputs.
• The original construction of the fort began in 1592.
• It underwent significant expansion and renovation under the reign of Jai Singh I, who ruled from 1621 to 1667.
  • He is credited with constructing the impressive Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) and the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace) within the fort complex.
• Following Jai Singh I's enhancements, successive rulers of the Kachwaha dynasty continued to contribute to Amer Fort's development, until the capital was shifted to Jaipur in 1727.
• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Architecture:
  • Its architecture is a noteworthy fusion of Rajput (Hindu) and Mughal (Islamic) styles.
  • It was built using pink and yellow sandstones.
  • With its large ramparts, series of gates and cobbled paths, the fort overlooks the Maota Lake, at its forefront.
  • It has splendid palaces, courtyards, and the famous Sheesh Mahal.

About Mansar Lake:

• It is a freshwater lake located in the Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir.
• It lies in the foothills of the Shivalik
• It is oval in shape and surrounded by green hills and forests.
• It is one of the largest lakes in the region.
• The lake is mainly fed by rainwater and underground springs.
• It has been a center of faith for many generations.
  • On the eastern side of the lake stands the Sheshnag Temple, where devotees offer milk and prayers to the serpent god.
  • Other temples such as Durga Temple and Umapati Mahadev Temple are also located around the lake.
• Mansar Lake is ecologically rich, housing about many species of algae and supporting diverse fauna including several species of fish and waterfowl.
• Together with its twin lake, Surinsar, it was designated under Ramsar Convention in November 2005.

About Col. Sher Jung National Park:

• Sher Jung National Park, also known as Simbalbara National Park, is located in the Paonta Valley of the Sirmaur (Sirmour) district in Himachal Pradesh along its border with Haryana.
• It is named after the famous freedom fighter and ardent environmentalist Colonel Sher Jung.
• The park is located in the lower Shiwalik region and extends into the middle and upper Shiwaliks.
• Geographically, it is at the confluence of three biogeographic regions: the Himalayas, the Gangetic plain, and the semi-arid region.
• It touches Kalesar National Park of Haryana to its south and west.
• The Simbalbara River flows through Simbalbara National Park and is a lifeline for the park’s plants and animals.
• Vegetation: It is characterized by its dense Sal forests with grassy glades.
• Flora:
  • Sal (Shorea robusta) and Terminalia tomentosa are the principal species that form the top canopy here.
  • On the riverine side, Jamun (Syzygium cumini), Cassia siamea, and Eucalyptus are present.
• Fauna:
  • Some key species include Nilgai, Sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, goral, barking deer, and Rhesus macaque.
  • The park also serves as a significant bird habitat, home to species like the Indian roller, dollar bird, kingfishers, and three types of hornbills.
  • Predatory birds such as the crested serpent eagle and Brahminy kite also inhabit this area.

About Yangtze River:

• The Yangtze River, known in China as the Chang Jiang or Yangzi, is the longest river in both China and Asia and the third-longest river in the world after the Nile River and the Amazon River.
• It is also considered the longest river to exclusively flow within the borders of a single nation.
• Course:
  • It begins in the mountains of Tibet.
  • The Yangtze empties into the East China Sea near Shanghai in east-central China.
• It has eight principal tributaries. On its left bank, from source to mouth, these are the Yalung, Min, Jialing, and Han rivers; those on the right bank include the Wu, Yuan, Xiang, and Gan rivers.
• The Yangtze has been an important traffic route since the 1200s. The river connects inland and coastal ports with major cities, including Nanjing, Wuhan, and Chongqing.
• Its basin is China’s great granary. Nearly half of China’s crops are grown in this area.
• The Yangtze basin provides about half of all the fish eaten in China.
• Industries and farming there contribute as much as 40% of China's whole economy.
• The region is also responsible for the housing of 400 million people, about one-third of the country’s population.
• Many of China's largest cities, including Shanghai, Wuhan, and Chongqing, are situated along the river.

About Apis mellifera:

• Apis mellifera, the Western bee or European bee, is the most common species of honey bee worldwide.
• It is the most widely distributed and well-known domesticated species of insect in the world.
• It is commercially exploited for products such as honey, wax, and propolis, and it is used for pollination of multiple crops.
• Habitat and Distribution:
  • It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and Africa.
  • Human introduction of Apis mellifera to other continents started in the 17th century, and now they are found all around the world, including East Asia, Australia, and North and South America.
  • They prefer habitats that have an abundant supply of suitable flowering plants, such as meadows, open wooded areas, and gardens.
  • They can survive in grasslands, deserts, and wetlands if there is sufficient water, food, and shelter.
  • They need cavities (e.g. in hollow trees) to nest in.
• Features:
  • Like all honey bees, the western honey bee is eusocial, creating colonies with a single fertile female (or "queen"), many normally non-reproductive females or "workers," and a small proportion of fertile males or "drones." 

About Fructose:

• It is a member of a group of carbohydrates known as simple sugars, or monosaccharides.
• It is one of the three most common natural monosaccharides. (The other two are glucose and galactose.)
• Chemical Formula: C₆H₁₂O₆ (same as glucose but with a different structure).
• Fructose is the most water-soluble monosaccharide.
• It is commonly known as fruit sugar. Fructose naturally occurs in fruits, vegetables, honey, sugar cane, and sugar beets.
• Fructose is significantly sweeter than glucose, making it ideal for use in beverages, desserts, and snacks.
• Fructose and glucose combine to form the disaccharide sucrose, which we know as common sugar/table sugar.
• However, fructose needs to be converted into glucose by the liver before it can be used by the body.
• Unlike other sugars, fructose does not require insulin to be absorbed and therefore has a low impact on blood glucose levels.

About Kulsi River:

• It is a south-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
• Course:
  • It is composed of three rivers, namely Khri, Krishniya, and Umsiri, all of which originate from the West Khasi hill ranges of Meghalaya.
  • The river is known as Khri in the upper catchments, and after being joined by two other tributaries, namely Krishniya and Umsiri, within the Khasi hills in Meghalaya, it flows northwest and enters Assam at Ukium.
  • After that it flows north up to Kulsi village through the plains of the Kamrup District of Assam.
  • Finally, it outflows into the Brahmaputra near Nagarbera.
• It is considered one of the last refuges of the endangered Gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica gangetica) in Assam.

About Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary:

• It is located in the eastern fringe of Guwahati city in Assam.
• The sanctuary was formed by merging three reserve forest areas: South Amchang Reserve Forest, Amchang Reserve Forest, and Khanapara Reserve Forest.
• It stretches from the Brahmaputra River in the north to the hilly forests of Meghalaya in the south, forming a continuous forest belt through Meghalaya’s Maradakdola Reserve Forests.
• Vegetation: Khasi Hill Sal Forests, East Himalayan Mixed Deciduous Forest, Eastern Alluvial Secondary Semi-evergreen Forests, and East Himalayan Sal Forests.
• Flora: The forest is dominated by teak, white iris, axle wood, terminalia, wild java plum, elephant rope tree, beechwood, bitter champa, black dammer tree, cluster fig, and arjun trees.
• Fauna:
  • Among the mammals found here are Asian elephants, leopards, fishing cat, Asian palm civet, tadpole, different species of monkeys, gaur or Indian bison, sambar, barking deer, porcupines, mongooses, wild pigs, rabbit, flying squirrel, and otter.
  • It shelters both resident and migratory birds such a jungle fowl, doves, egrets, teals, partridges, woodpeckers, hornbills, kingfishers, bulbuls, and many others.
  • Tree yellow butterflies (gancana harina) are also found at the Amchang wildlife sanctuary. These butterflies are indigenous to Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and Northeast India.

About Glutathione:

• Glutathione is an antioxidant produced in the body through enzymatic reactions.
• It is a tripeptide consisting of three amino acids (glutamate, cysteine, and glycine) and is naturally produced in the liver.
• These amino acids that make up glutathione are non-essential amino acids that our body can produce on its own when needed.
• In addition to being produced naturally by the body, glutathione can be given intravenously, topically, or as an inhalant. It’s also available as an oral supplement in capsule and liquid form.
• Some of the most abundant food sources of glutathione include cabbage, Brussels sprouts, garlic, onions, broccoli, and cauliflower.
• Benefits:
  • Glutathione is often called the “master antioxidant” because of its crucial role in protecting and detoxifying cells.
  • It is involved in tissue building and repair, making chemicals and proteins needed in the body, and in immune system function.
  • It also can play a role in treating certain genetic conditions.
• Glutathione levels in the body may be reduced by a number of factors, including poor nutrition, environmental toxins, and stress. Its levels also typically decline with age.

About Mogrus shushka and Mogrus pune:

• These are two newly discovered arachnids belonging to the genus Mogrus, a group of medium-sized jumping spiders typically found in the arid regions of Africa, Europe, and Asia.
• Mogrus shushka:
  • It was identified in Desert National Park, Rajasthan, a region better known for its sand dunes and iconic desert wildlife.
  • Derived from the Sanskrit word shushka for 'dry,' the name reflects the extreme, arid conditions in which the spider thrives.
  • It is highly adapted to intense heat, low humidity, and sandy terrain, conditions that define the Thar desert.
• Mogrus pune:
  • It was discovered in the Alfa Laval Biodiversity Park in Maharashtra. It was named after the city of Pune.

About Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary:

• Location: It is located in Jharkhand.
• It is situated around the Dalma Hills on the Chottanagpur Plateau.
• The Sanctuary gets its name from the “Dalma mai” a local goddess who is revered and worshipped by the local people and the people of adjoining villages of Dalma. 
• Terrain: The terrain here is hilly and rocky, with dense forests and grasslands. 
• River: The entire forest of Dalma Sanctuary falls in the catchment of the Subarnarekha River.
• It features two prominent waterfalls, Sitaguldi and Dassam.
• Vegetation: The forests of Dalma come under the category “Dry peninsular Sal” and “Northern dry mixed deciduous Forest”.
• Flora: Medicinal plants like Ananatmula, Satawari, Sarpgandha, etc. are abundant in the sanctuary. 
• Various types of trees, climbers, herbs, shrubs, and orchids are found here. 
• Fauna:  Besides elephants, the sanctuary has a considerable population of other wildlife like barking deer, wild boar, giant squirrel, porcupine, pangolin, sloth bear, etc.

About National Mineral Exploration and Development Trust:

• It is set up by the Central Government for the purposes of regional and detailed exploration of minerals using the funds accrued to it and in such manner as prescribed by the Central Government.
• It was established under the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Amendment Act, 2015, (MMRDA).
• Structure: It has a two-tier structure:
  • Apex Body: It is the Governing Body, chaired by the Minister of Mines. It holds the overall control of the Trust.
  • Executive Committee: It is chaired by the Secretary, Ministry of Mines, administers and manages its activities.
• Funding: To implement mandated activities an NMET Fund has been established.
  • The NMET Fund receives money from holders of mining lease or a prospecting license-cum-mining lease, an amount equivalent to two percent of royalty paid in terms of the Second Schedule of the MMDR Act.
• Functions of NMET:
  • Funding special studies and projects designed to identify, explore, extract, beneficiate and refine deep-seated or concealed mineral deposits;
  • Undertaking studies for mineral development, sustainable mining, adoption of advanced scientific and technological practices and mineral extraction metallurgy;
  • Detailed and regional exploration for strategic and critical minerals
  • Facilitating a national core repository for encouraging research in earth sciences and for evaluation of the mineral prospects.

About Bharat Maritime Insurance Pool:

• It is a new domestic maritime insurance scheme designed to safeguard the country's shipping and trade interests during periods of global instability.
• It is a Centre-backed mechanism designed to ensure uninterrupted and affordable maritime insurance coverage.
• Coverage: The BMI Pool will provide insurance support to Indian-flagged vessels, Indian-controlled ships, and vessels carrying cargo to or from India, including those passing through volatile maritime routes.
• It will cover a wide range of risks, including hull and machinery, cargo, protection and indemnity, and war risk insurance.
• The BMI Pool will initially run for 10 years, with the possibility of a five-year extension.
• Significance: It is expected to strengthen India’s self-reliance in marine insurance, build domestic expertise in underwriting and claims management, and ensure continuity of coverage in case of global disruptions or sanctions. 

About Dung Beetle:

• The Dung Beetle is scientifically known as the Scarabaeidae family within the Animal Kingdom’s order Coleoptera.
• Appearance:
  • They are robust, compact insects known for their hard, protective exoskeletons and strong, clawed legs adapted for digging and rolling dung.
  • They vary in color, with some species displaying dull, black or brown hues, while others exhibit metallic shades of blue, green, or copper.
• Distribution: Dung beetles are found worldwide, on every continent except Antarctica.
• Habitat: They live in habitats that range from desert to forest.
• They feed on the feces of large herbivores during both their larval and adult stages. 
• Dung beetles span three main lifestyles: rollers (ball-makers), tunnelers (bury beneath), and dwellers (live in the pat).
• Several dung beetles navigate using celestial cues; some use the Milky Way as an orientation reference during straight-line rolling.
• Many scarabs have fan-like (lamellate) antennae that open to sample odors-useful for locating fresh dung fast.
• Ecological Role: They play major ecological roles in nutrient cycling, soil aeration, seed dispersal, and parasite/flies suppression.

About Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana:

• It is a flagship rural development programme of the Government of India, launched in 2000.
• Objectives: Providing all-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations in rural areas by way of a single all-weather road, to the eligible unconnected habitations of designated population size.
• Eligibility Criteria of PMGSY Scheme:
  • The eligibility criteria under the PMGSY scheme were primarily based on population size and connectivity status.
  • In plain areas, habitations with a population of 500 or more were eligible, provided they were unconnected.
  • For regions in North-Eastern states, Himalayan states, and Himalayan Union Territories, the threshold was reduced to a population of 250 or more, as per the 2001 Census.
• It is implemented by the following agencies: 
  • State Governments / UT Administrations will designate Executing Agencies to implement the programme.
  • At the District level, the programme will be planned, coordinated, and implemented through Programme Implementation Units (PIUs).
  • PIUs will be manned by competent technical personnel.
  • State Governments will establish suitable linkages with District Rural Development Agencies (DRDAs).
• Funds will be released to DRDAs
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development