Prelims
FSSAI Egg Safety Drive
Context
- FSSAI launched a nationwide egg safety drive after viral allegations of nitrofuran residues.
- The drive follows concerns regarding food safety and regulatory compliance in egg production.
What the Egg Safety Drive Is
- The drive is a regulatory surveillance and testing initiative led by FSSAI.
- It focuses on detecting banned veterinary drug residues, especially nitrofurans, in eggs.
- The objective is to ensure consumer safety and enforce food safety standards.
Nitrofurans
- Scientific Profile
- Nitrofurans are synthetic nitrofuran-based antimicrobial agents.
- Common compounds include nitrofurantoin, furazolidone, nitrofurazone, and furaltadone.
- They are classified as chemotherapeutic antibacterial agents, not natural antibiotics.
- Origin and Regulatory Status
- Nitrofurans were earlier used in veterinary treatment of bacterial and protozoal infections.
- Due to carcinogenic potential, they are banned in food-producing animals.
- The ban applies in India, the European Union, and several other countries.
- Key Properties
- Nitrofurans show broad-spectrum activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
- They act primarily as bacteriostatic agents, becoming bactericidal at higher concentrations.
- These compounds are more effective in acidic environments.
- They exhibit slow resistance development, but complete cross-resistance within the group.
Human Health Implications
- Certain nitrofurans are linked to cancer risks, prompting global prohibition.
- Excess exposure may cause neurological effects, gastrointestinal distress, and hypersensitivity.
- Residues in eggs violate food laws and undermine consumer trust.
- Long-term low-level exposure may cause cumulative public health hazards.
United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC)
Context
- India reaffirmed Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and Sarva Dharma Samabhav at UNAOC 2025.
- The 11th UNAOC forum was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
What UNAOC Is
- UNAOC is a United Nations initiative promoting intercultural and interfaith cooperation.
- It counters extremism and polarization through dialogue and partnerships.
- Institutional Details
- Established in 2005 as an initiative of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
- Co-sponsored by Spain and Türkiye.
- Headquarters located in New York, United States.
- Core Objectives
- Reduce polarization among societies and cultures.
- Promote peaceful coexistence and inclusive societies globally.
- Priority Areas
- Education: Strengthening intercultural learning frameworks.
- Youth: Empowering youth as peacebuilders.
- Migration: Promoting inclusion and social cohesion.
- Media: Addressing stereotypes and hate speech.
- Women: Enhancing women’s role as peace mediators.
UNAOC 2025 Highlights
- Theme focused on two decades of dialogue in a multipolar world.
- Marked 20 years of UNAOC, outlining priorities for its third decade.
- Witnessed participation from political leaders, civil society, youth, faith actors, and media.
- Reaffirmed global commitment to dialogue, religious harmony, and mutual respect.
India–ADB Loan Agreements
Context
- India and ADB signed loan agreements exceeding $2.2 billion.
- The financing covers five development projects across multiple sectors.
- The package aims to accelerate human capital, clean energy, healthcare, mobility, and livelihoods.
Key Components
- Skilling ($846 million): Modernisation of 650 ITIs and 5 NSTIs in 12 States.
- Targets employability of 1.3 million youth in emerging sectors.
- Rooftop solar ($650 million): Supports PM Surya Ghar for 10 million households by 2027.
- Focus on reforms and collateral-free loans.
- Healthcare ($398.8 million): Upgradation of medical colleges in Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Silchar.
- Urban transport ($240 million): Chennai Metro Rail Phase-2 with climate-resilient features.
- Livelihoods ($77 million): Meghalaya ecotourism and climate-smart agriculture project.
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- Established in 1966, headquartered in Manila.
- Has 69 members; India is a founding member.
- India is the largest ADB borrower, accounting for about 14% of commitments.
- ADB supports loans, grants, technical assistance, and policy reforms.
Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate
Context: Vehicles without valid PUC certificates cannot refuel at Delhi fuel stations
Overview of PUC
- PUC Certificate is a mandatory statutory document required for all vehicle owners in India.
- It certifies that a vehicle complies with prescribed environmental emission standards.
- The certificate legally permits driving or riding vehicles meeting government-notified pollution norms.
- It serves as official validation that vehicle emission levels remain within permissible limits.
Legal Basis and Applicability
- All vehicles must possess a valid PUC Certificate under the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
- The requirement applies to petrol, diesel, and CNG-powered vehicles without exception.
- Operating a vehicle without valid PUC constitutes legal non-compliance on Indian roads.
Validity and Exemptions
- Newly registered vehicles are generally exempted from PUC requirements during the first year.
- After exemption, vehicles must undergo mandatory emission testing at prescribed intervals.
- A PUC Certificate is usually valid for one year from the date of issuance.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
- Failure to produce a valid PUC can attract a fine up to ₹10,000.
- Offenders may face imprisonment up to six months, or both fine and imprisonment.
- Authorities may disqualify the vehicle owner from holding a driving licence for three months.
Cancellation and Revalidation
- If emissions exceed prescribed limits despite valid PUC, the certificate is cancelled.
- Vehicle owners must obtain a fresh PUC Certificate within seven days.
- Continued non-compliance after cancellation invites applicable penalties under motor vehicle laws.
Procedure to Obtain PUC Certificate
- PUC Certificate is issued only by government-authorised emission testing centres.
- Centres must possess a computerised facility for conducting emission measurements.
- The process involves systematic examination of the vehicle’s exhaust gas emissions.
- Emission test results and values are clearly mentioned on the issued PUC Certificate.
Significance
- The PUC mechanism regulates vehicular pollution through periodic emission monitoring.
- It supports environmental protection goals by enforcing emission accountability among vehicle owners.
Juvenile Justice Board (JJB)
Overview and Legal Basis
- Juvenile Justice Board is constituted under Section 4 of Juvenile Justice Act, 2015.
- It deals with matters relating to children in conflict with law under the Act.
- The Act mandates State Governments to constitute one or more Boards for every district.
- The Board functions as the primary authority for adjudicating juvenile justice cases.
Constitution and Establishment
- State Government is responsible for establishing Juvenile Justice Boards at district level.
- More than one Board may be constituted in a district, depending upon case requirements.
- The Board functions independently while following procedures prescribed under the Act.
Composition of Juvenile Justice Board
- The Board consists of a Metropolitan Magistrate or Judicial Magistrate of First Class.
- The Magistrate shall not be the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate or Chief Judicial Magistrate.
- The Magistrate is designated as Principal Magistrate with minimum three years’ experience.
- Two social workers are appointed in the prescribed manner by the State Government.
- At least one social worker must be a woman, ensuring gender representation.
Powers of Juvenile Justice Board
- Section 15 provides special provisions for heinous offences by children aged 16–18 years.
- The Board conducts a preliminary assessment in cases involving heinous offences.
- Based on assessment, the Board may transfer such cases to the Children’s Court.
- The Children’s Court functions as a Court of Session for such transferred cases.
Functions of Juvenile Justice Board
- The Board ensures protection of child rights during apprehension, inquiry, and proceedings.
- It oversees aftercare and rehabilitation processes for children in conflict with law.
- The Board ensures availability of legal aid through legal services institutions.
- It conducts at least one monthly inspection of residential facilities for children.
- The Board recommends service improvement measures to District Child Protection Unit.
- It also forwards recommendations to the State Government for necessary action.
Gallantry Awards in India
Overview and Purpose
- Gallantry Awards are instituted by the Government of India to honour bravery and sacrifice.
- Awards recognise acts of valour by Armed Forces, other lawfully constituted forces, and civilians.
- These awards acknowledge exceptional courage displayed during duty and extraordinary circumstances.
Announcement and Conferment
- Gallantry Awards are announced twice every year by the Government of India.
- Announcements coincide with Republic Day and Independence Day celebrations.
Historical Background
- Three gallantry awards were instituted on 26 January 1950 by the Government of India.
- These awards were Param Vir Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Vir Chakra.
- In 1952, three additional awards called Ashoka Chakra Class I, II, and III were instituted.
- In 1967, these were renamed Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra.
Order of Precedence
- The highest gallantry award is the Param Vir Chakra.
- It is followed by Ashoka Chakra, Maha Vir Chakra, and Kirti Chakra.
- Next in order are the Vir Chakra and the Shaurya Chakra.
General Conditions
- All gallantry awards may be conferred posthumously.
- Awardees must not face adverse reports, censure, or court martial punishment.
- Recommendations exclude personnel punished through administrative or judicial proceedings.
Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra and Shaurya Chakra
- Eligibility Categories
- Officers and personnel of Army, Navy, Air Force, including reserve and territorial forces.
- Members of Nursing Services of the Armed Forces are also eligible.
- Civilians, Police Forces, Central Para-Military Forces, and Railway Protection Force members qualify.
- Conditions of Eligibility
- Ashoka Chakra is awarded for exceptional bravery or self-sacrifice otherwise than in enemy presence.
- Kirti Chakra recognises conspicuous gallantry not involving direct combat with the enemy.
- Shaurya Chakra is granted for acts of gallantry outside the face of the enemy.
Apache AH-64E Attack Helicopter
Overview and Identification
- Apache AH-64E is regarded as the most advanced multi-role attack helicopter worldwide.
- It is deployed for reconnaissance, precision attack, and close air support operations.
- The helicopter is popularly designated as the Apache Guardian.
- United States is the country of origin for the AH-64E platform.
- The helicopter is produced by Boeing, a major global aerospace manufacturer.
- AH-64E is the latest operational Apache variant inducted by the U.S. Army.
International Operators
- The AH-64E has been acquired by several countries across Asia, Europe, and West Asia.
- Operators include India, Israel, Japan, Egypt, Greece, and Indonesia.
- Other users are South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
- Additional operators include Singapore, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.
Apache in Indian Defence Forces
- The Indian Air Force currently operates 22 AH-64E Apache helicopters.
- In 2020, Boeing entered into a contract with the Government of India.
- The agreement provides for induction of six Apache helicopters for the Indian Army.
Key Technical Specifications
- The helicopter measures 17.8 metres in length.
- Its maximum take-off weight is approximately 10,433 kilograms.
- The platform can achieve a top speed of 300 kilometres per hour.
- The operational combat range extends up to 500 kilometres.
Design and Technological Capabilities
- The AH-64E incorporates an open-systems architecture enabling future technology upgrades.
- It supports advanced navigation, communication, sensor, and weapon integration.
- Enhanced features include higher thrust, improved lift, and digital joint interoperability.
- Survivability is strengthened through improved systems and cognitive decision-support aids.
- The helicopter integrates an infrared laser system for accurate target marking.
- It provides enhanced infrared imagery, combining night-vision and infrared sensors.
Weapon Systems
- The primary weapon is the 30 mm M230 Chain Gun, noted for precision firing.
- The helicopter can be armed with up to 16 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles.
- Hellfire missiles are optimised for destroying armoured and hardened targets.
- It can also deploy Hydra-70 unguided rockets for flexible strike missions.
- Stinger air-to-air missiles extend the platform’s aerial engagement capability.
Exercise EKUVERIN
Background and Meaning
- EKUVERIN, meaning “Friends” in the Dhivehi language, began in 2009.
- It represents a key pillar of defence cooperation between India and Maldives.
Nature of the Exercise
- EKUVERIN is among the three major joint military exercises of both nations.
- It is a bilateral annual exercise, conducted alternately in India and Maldives.
Objectives and Scope
- The exercise seeks to strengthen interoperability between the armed forces.
- It focuses on counterinsurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
- Training is carried out in semi-urban, jungle, and coastal environments.
Operational Significance
- Emphasis is placed on integration of niche technologies for joint operations.
- Participating forces exchange best practices, reinforcing regional peace and security.
Other Related Exercises
- Bilateral exercises include EKUVERIN and EKATHA.
- DOSTI is a trilateral exercise involving India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.
Vijay Diwas
Context
- Vijay Diwas is observed on 16 December 2025 across India.
- It commemorates India’s victory in the 1971 war and armed forces’ sacrifices.
Background to the War
- In 1970, the Awami League won elections but was denied power.
- Political denial triggered mass agitation in East Pakistan.
- On 25 March 1971, Pakistan launched Operation Searchlight.
- Around 10 million refugees entered India, creating humanitarian pressures.
- Mukti Bahini emerged as the armed resistance, supported by India.
Key Military Events (3–16 December 1971)
- On 3 December, Pakistan launched Operation Chengiz Khan air strikes.
- India entered full-scale war following the pre-emptive attacks.
- Indian Air Force achieved air superiority in the eastern theatre.
- Indian Navy enforced a Bay of Bengal blockade using INS Vikrant.
- Operation Trident and Operation Python crippled Karachi’s fuel infrastructure.
- On 16 December, Pakistan’s Eastern Command surrendered in Dhaka.
Outcomes
- Bangladesh emerged as a sovereign nation.
- Around 93,000 Pakistani troops surrendered, one of history’s largest capitulations.
- India emerged as the dominant conventional power in South Asia.
- The war shaped post-war diplomacy, including the Simla Agreement (1972).
Significance
- Vijay Diwas symbolises jointness, leadership, and decisive military doctrine.
- Demonstrates importance of clear objectives, manoeuvre warfare, and maritime control.
HAMMER (AASM) Precision-Guided Weapon
Context
- India signed an agreement with Safran for indigenous production of HAMMER (AASM).
- Manufacturing will occur through a 50:50 JV between BEL and Safran.
What HAMMER Is
- HAMMER is a stand-off precision-guided air-to-ground weapon.
- It converts conventional bombs into high-accuracy strike systems.
Development and Aim
- Developed by Safran Electronics & Defense, France.
- Aims to deliver accurate, flexible strikes from safe distances.
- Enables controlled escalation with reduced collateral damage.
Technical Features
- Modular design using guidance and propulsion kits on standard bomb bodies.
- Compatible with 125 kg to 1,000 kg bomb classes.
- Offers INS-GPS, INS-GPS-IR, and laser guidance options.
- Rocket booster enables extended stand-off range and off-axis launches.
- Accuracy ranges from ~10 m CEP to ~1 m CEP.
Operational Significance
- Bridges gap between unguided bombs and cruise missiles.
- Enhances strategic autonomy through domestic manufacturing.
- Builds indigenous expertise in precision-strike technologies.
