PRELIMS
MUNNAR AS ‘RESPONSIBLE TOURISM DESTINATION’
Subject: GS1 – Indian Geography / Places in News
Why in News: Kerala govt to transform Munnar into a net-zero tourism hub.
Key Facts:
- Location: Idukki district, Kerala; elevation: 1,600 m.
- Rivers: Confluence of Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni, Kundala rivers.
- Nearby Hills: Anamalai Hills & Cardamom Hills.
Biodiversity:
- Neelakurinji flower (blooms once in 12 years).
- Eravikulam National Park: home to Nilgiri Tahr (endangered).
- Anamudi Peak: Highest peak in South India.
- Original Inhabitants: Muthuvan tribe.
- Tourism Shift: Focus on responsible, sustainable, eco-sensitive tourism.
MAHABODHI TEMPLE (BODH GAYA)
Subject: GS1 – Art & Culture
Why in News: SC rejected plea seeking exclusive Buddhist control over temple.
Key Facts:
- Location: Bodh Gaya, Bihar.
- Significance: Site of Buddha’s Enlightenment under Bodhi Tree.
- Heritage Status: UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Founder: Emperor Ashoka (3rd century BCE).
- Current Structure: 5th–6th century CE.
- Architecture: One of the earliest brick temples in India.
- Historic Takeover: Managed by Buddhists till 13th century; invaded by Bakhtiyar Khilji.
- Post-Independence Law: Bodh Gaya Temple Act, 1949 – committee includes both Hindus and Buddhists.
- Additional Fact: Buddhists were recognised as a minority in 1993 under the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992.
GLUTATHIONE
Subject: GS2 – Health & Regulation
Why in News: Actor’s death linked to glutathione injections (anti-ageing use).
Key Facts:
- What is it? Naturally occurring antioxidant, produced in liver.
- Functions: Skin repair, anti-aging, immunity boost, neutralises free radicals.
- Use: Orally or via injection for anti-aging or skin lightening (off-label).
- Risks: Allergies, kidney damage, blood pressure fluctuations.
- Regulation: Not approved by CDSCO for cosmetic use.
- Concern: Growing off-label use without clinical oversight.
RAILONE APP
Subject: GS3 – Science & Tech / Digital Governance
Why in News: Launched on CRIS’s 40th Foundation Day by the Railway Minister.
Key Facts:
- Developer: Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS).
- Purpose: One-stop app for integrated railway services.
Features:
- UTS tickets (unreserved) via R-Wallet with 3% discount.
- Live train tracking, grievance redressal, e-catering, porter booking, taxi booking.
- Login via mPIN/biometric; supports RailConnect & UTS credentials.
- Reduces the need to download multiple railway apps.
EPABX (ELECTRONIC PRIVATE AUTOMATIC BRANCH EXCHANGE)
Subject: GS3 – Science & Technology / Infrastructure
Why in News: Highlighted as evolving office communication tech.
Key Facts:
- What is it? A private telephone exchange system used in organisations.
- Purpose: Allows internal and external communication using extensions.
- Switching Evolution:
- From electromechanical crossbars → digital switching.
- Uses Pulse Code Modulation (PCM) + Time Division Multiplexing (TDM).
- Modern Upgrades:
- Integration with VoIP, IVR, CRM tools.
- Features: Voicemail, call recording, mobile access.
