Prelims Pinpointer 26-12-2025

Prelims Pinpointer 

Thanjavur Painting (Tanjore Painting)

Origin and Background

• Thanjavur painting is a classical South Indian art form originating around 1600 AD.
• It developed in Thanjavur (Tanjore), Tamil Nadu, under royal patronage.
• The art flourished significantly during the rule of the Nayakas of Thanjavur.
• It represents a synthesis of devotional art and courtly aesthetics.
• The tradition has received Geographical Indication (GI) tag recognition.

Base and Materials

• Paintings are executed on wooden panels, traditionally called palagai padam.
• Canvas is pasted on wood using Arabic gum as a binding agent.
• Wooden bases are usually made from jackfruit or teak wood.
• Natural pigments and mineral colours are traditionally preferred.

Distinctive Artistic Features

• Gesso work is a defining feature, creating raised, embossed designs.
• Gesso is prepared using chalk powder, gypsum, and glue.
• Extensive use of gold leaf or gold foil gives a rich, luminous appearance.
• Paintings employ bright, vibrant colours like red, blue, green, and gold.
• Central figures are highlighted, with minimal background clutter.

Themes and Iconography

• Primarily depicts Hindu gods and goddesses in iconic postures.
• Common subjects include Lord Krishna, Lord Ganesha, Goddess Lakshmi, and Shri Ram.
• Deities are portrayed with calm expressions and divine ornamentation.
• Composition emphasises bhakti (devotion) and spiritual grandeur.

Cultural Significance

• Represents South India’s temple-centric devotional art tradition.
• Combines painting, sculpture-like relief, and ornamentation.
• Remains an important symbol of Tamil cultural and artistic heritage.
• Continues to be preserved through artisans, museums, and postal logistics initiatives.

Haka Dance

What is Haka Dance

• Haka is a traditional ceremonial dance of the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand.
• It is characterised by vigorous movements, rhythmic chanting, and intense expressions.
• Performers display pukana, involving wide eyes and protruding tongue, symbolising strength.
• Movements include stamping feet, slapping thighs, hand gestures, and synchronized postures.
• The dance is collective, emphasising unity, discipline, and shared identity.

Cultural Origins and Diversity

• Haka traditions vary across different Māori tribes (iwi) and regions.
• Many haka narrate historical events, ancestral stories, and tribal achievements.
• Each haka carries specific meanings, reflecting the context of its performance.
• It functions as both an oral tradition and a performative cultural expression.
• Haka reinforces tribal pride, lineage, and collective memory.

Traditional and Contemporary Uses

• Traditionally, haka was performed before battles, to intimidate opponents.
• It was also used to welcome guests and mark important community occasions.
• Haka celebrated victories, milestones, and social achievements.
• In contemporary society, haka is performed at weddings, funerals, and public ceremonies.
• It remains a living cultural practice, adapting to modern contexts.

Global Recognition

• Haka gained global visibility through the New Zealand national rugby team, the All Blacks.
• The All Blacks incorporated haka into pregame rituals in the early 20th century.
• This association transformed haka into a global symbol of New Zealand’s identity.
• International exposure enhanced awareness of Māori culture and traditions.

Recent Developments

• In November 2024, two lawmakers performed haka inside the New Zealand Parliament.
• The act was used as a symbolic protest against proposed legislation.
• The Auckland protest reflects haka’s role as a political and cultural expression.
• Haka continues to function as a tool of assertion, resistance, and identity.

Significance

• Haka represents cultural continuity, strength, and unity of the Māori people.
• It illustrates how indigenous traditions engage with modern democratic spaces.
• The dance underscores the intersection of culture, protest, and public life.

Bezymianny Volcano

Location and Physical Setting

• Bezymianny is a cone-shaped stratovolcano located on the Kamchatka Peninsula, Russia.
• It lies on the southeastern slope of the extinct Kamen volcano.
• A high, narrow saddle separates Bezymianny from Mount Kamen.
• The volcano’s eastern and western flanks are carved by wide sloping valleys.
• Multiple lava flows are present on the upper slopes of the edifice.
• Lower elevations contain a series of lava domes on southern and western sides.

Eruptive History

• Bezymianny remained dormant until renewed activity began in 1955.
• The 1956 eruption was among the largest explosive eruptions of the 20th century.
• The eruption catastrophically destroyed the volcanic cone.
• Instead of dormancy, the volcano began rebuilding almost immediately.
• Since 1956, activity has been continuous but mostly small to moderate.
• Recurrent eruptions involve lava dome growth and periodic explosions.

Eruption Characteristics

• Eruptions are marked by pyroclastic flows and ash plumes.
• Ashfall events frequently affect surrounding regions.
• Lava domes grow and collapse, triggering explosive activity.
• The volcano demonstrates persistent magma supply and regeneration.

Stratovolcano Characteristics

• Stratovolcanoes are steep-sided, tall, cone-shaped volcanic structures.
• They commonly occur along subduction zones.
• Such volcanoes dominate the Pacific Ring of Fire.
• About 60% of Earth’s individual volcanoes are stratovolcanoes.
• They typically erupt andesitic and dacitic lava, which is viscous.
• High magma viscosity allows gas pressure accumulation, causing explosions.
• Stratovolcanoes consist of alternating lava layers and pyroclastic deposits.
• Due to layered structure, they are also called composite volcanoes.
• Most have a small summit crater at the peak.

Significance

• Bezymianny demonstrates rapid post-eruption volcanic regeneration.
• It offers critical insights into volcanic dome growth and explosive behaviour.
• The volcano remains a key site for volcanology and hazard studies.

NATGRID and NPR

Context: National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID) has been linked to the National Population Register (NPR), containing family-wise details of 119 crore residents in India. The platform enables police and investigating agencies to access government and private databases in real-time for intelligence gathering.

National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID)

• Overview

• • National Intelligence Grid is a secure digital platform enabling real-time database access for security agencies.
  • It integrates government and private databases to strengthen investigation and intelligence capabilities.
  • Designed to support counter-terrorism, economic crime detection, and national security operations.

• Background and Evolution

• • Conceptualised in 2009 following the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
  • Established as an attached office of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Became operational on December 31, 2020, after phased development.
  • Aims to address information silos across multiple enforcement agencies.

• Purpose and Objectives

• • To create a seamless intelligence-sharing architecture across agencies.
  • To enable faster investigation, profiling, and tracking of suspects.
  • To improve coordination in tackling terrorism, organised crime, and financial offences.

• Agencies with Access

• • NATGRID database is accessible to Intelligence Bureau and R&AW.
  • Includes NIA, Enforcement Directorate, FIU, NCB, and DRI.
  • Access is restricted to Superintendent of Police rank officers and above.
  • Ensures controlled, accountable, and authorised data usage.

• Operational Mechanism

• • Mandated to maintain a centralised repository of intelligence databases.
  • Functions as an integrated intelligence grid connecting core security agencies.
  • Enables secure, query-based access rather than bulk data sharing.

• Data Sources Integrated

• • Immigration entry and exit records of individuals.
  • Banking, financial transactions, and credit card purchase data.
  • Telecom records, including call data and related metadata.
  • Information on taxpayers, air passengers, and train travellers.

• Technological Framework

• • Uses Big Data analytics to process large-scale datasets.
  • Analyses patterns, links events, and generates actionable intelligence.
  • Helps in suspect profiling, movement tracking, and predictive analysis.

• Significance

• • Enhances India’s internal security architecture through real-time intelligence access.
  • Strengthens investigative efficiency while reducing delays caused by fragmented data systems.

National Population Register (NPR)

• Overview

• • National Population Register is a database of usual residents of India.
  • A usual resident is one who resided for six months or intends to stay six months.
  • Registration under NPR is mandatory for all usual residents.
  • Assam is excluded, having completed the National Register of Citizens process.

• Administrative Authority

• • Conducted by Office of the Registrar General of India.
  • Implemented under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • NPR is part of India’s population data management framework.

• Legal Basis

• • Prepared under the Citizenship Act, 1955.
  • Operationalised through the Citizenship Rules, 2003.
  • Provides statutory backing for nationwide resident registration.

• Historical Background

• • First created in 2010 during House Listing phase of Census 2011.
  • Updated again in 2015–16 through door-to-door enumeration.
  • Database currently contains data of around 119 crore residents.

• Current Status

• • NPR update planned for 2020 has been put on hold.
  • Priority reduced due to expanded Aadhaar utility in welfare delivery.
  • Collection of ration card data was dropped from the 2020 proposal.

• Scope and Coverage

• • Conducted at local, sub-district, district, state, and national levels.
  • Designed as a comprehensive demographic database for governance.
  • Covers citizens and non-citizens residing in India.

• Data Collected

• • Demographic details include name, age, gender, marital status, and relationships.
  • Biometric information sourced through Aadhaar enrolment mechanisms.
  • Biometrics include fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs.

• NPR vs National Register of Citizens (NRC)

• • NPR records all usual residents, irrespective of citizenship status.
  • NRC identifies only Indian citizens for citizenship verification.
  • NPR supports welfare planning and demographic analysis.
  • NRC is primarily used for citizenship determination purposes.

PM-SETU Scheme (Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs)

Overview

• PM-SETU is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme to strengthen India’s vocational training ecosystem.
• Focuses on modernising Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) nationwide.
• Targets upgrading 1,000 government ITIs into industry-aligned training institutions.
• Anchored in improving employability, productivity, and skill relevance.

Objectives

• Align vocational training with industry demand and emerging technologies.
• Improve quality, scale, and outcomes of ITI-based skilling.
• Enhance employability and entrepreneurship pathways for youth.
• Promote industry participation in curriculum and training delivery.

Implementation Framework

• Implemented through a hub-and-spoke model.
• 200 hub ITIs linked with 800 spoke ITIs for outreach.
• Hubs provide advanced infrastructure and innovation ecosystems.
• Spokes expand access and regional coverage.

Key Features

• Hubs equipped with innovation and incubation centres.
• Establish production units for hands-on industry exposure.
• Dedicated Training of Trainers (ToT) facilities at hubs.
• Integrated placement and career services for trainees.

Major Components

• Introduce new demand-driven courses with industry collaboration.
• Revamp existing curricula to match evolving skill requirements.
• Create long-term diplomas, short-term courses, and executive programmes.
• Establish Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) with Anchor Industry Partners.
• Ensure outcome-based training and cluster-level management.

Centres of Excellence

• Strengthen five National Skill Training Institutes as global Centres of Excellence.
• Locations: Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, Ludhiana.
• Supported through global partnerships and advanced pedagogy.

Financial Outlay and Support

• Total outlay: ₹60,000 crore over five years.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
• Backed by global co-financing from World Bank and Asian Development Bank. 

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP)

Overview

• Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) is a prestigious national honour for children.
• It recognises exceptional achievements by children across diverse fields.
• The award aims to celebrate excellence, courage, and innovation among India’s youth.
• It highlights positive role models and inspires peer learning and aspiration.

Administering Authority

• Organised annually by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India.
• Conferred by the President of India, adding high constitutional significance.
• Award ceremony aligns with Veer Bal Diwas, emphasising courage and service.

Award Categories

• Bravery: Extraordinary courage in life-threatening or adverse situations.
• Art and Culture: Excellence in music, dance, painting, theatre, or heritage arts.
• Environment: Outstanding contributions to environmental protection and sustainability.
• Social Service: Notable service for community welfare and social upliftment.
• Science and Technology: Innovation, research, or technological creativity.
• Sports: Exceptional achievements at national or international sporting platforms.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicant must be an Indian citizen.
• Age limit: Above 5 years and not exceeding 18 years.
• Age calculated as on 31st July of the respective award year.
• The achievement must be within two years of the application deadline.
• Open to individual children, not groups or institutions.

Selection and Awards

• Maximum of 25 awards conferred annually.
• National Selection Committee may relax the cap at its discretion.
• Each awardee receives:
  • Medal
  • Certificate
  • Citation booklet detailing achievements

Significance

• Encourages child excellence and leadership from an early age.
• Reinforces the rights and potential of children in nation-building.
• Promotes a culture of merit, courage, creativity, and service nationwide.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)

What is Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC)?

• PSC is a rare, chronic liver disorder involving inflammation of bile ducts.
• Bile ducts transport bile from liver to gallbladder and small intestine.
• Progressive inflammation causes scarring and narrowing of bile ducts.
• Blocked bile flow leads to liver damage and impaired digestion.
• Over time, liver loses ability to filter blood and metabolise nutrients.

Disease Progression and Risks

• Persistent bile accumulation leads to cirrhosis and liver failure.
• PSC patients face elevated risk of bile duct cancer.
• Increased incidence of gallbladder and colorectal cancers reported.
• Disease course is slow, progressive, and unpredictable.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Exact cause remains uncertain and multifactorial.
• Strong association with genetic predisposition.
• Immune system dysfunction plays a significant role.
• Alterations in gut microbiome composition observed.
• Environmental influences may contribute to disease onset.

Symptoms and Clinical Features

• PSC may remain asymptomatic for several years.
• Symptoms appear gradually and may wax and wane.
• Common symptom includes intense itching (pruritus).
• Patients frequently experience extreme fatigue and abdominal pain.
• Jaundice develops due to bile accumulation.
• Recurrent infections cause chills and fever.

Diagnosis and Disease Outcome

• Progressive scarring results in irreversible liver damage.
• Median survival without transplant is approximately 10 years.
• Disease severity varies widely among patients.

Treatment and Management

• No definitive medical cure currently exists.
• Treatment focuses on monitoring liver function and symptom relief.
• Endoscopic procedures may temporarily open blocked ducts.
• Liver transplantation remains the only curative option in advanced PSC.

Key Takeaway

• PSC is a life-limiting autoimmune-linked liver disease with serious complications.
• Emerging therapies offer hope, but early detection and monitoring remain crucial.

K-4 Missile

What is K-4 Missile

• K-4 (Kalam-4) is a nuclear-capable, intermediate-range SLBM developed indigenously.
• It is designed mainly for deployment on Arihant-class nuclear submarines.
• The missile strengthens India’s sea-based nuclear deterrence capability.
• It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

Strategic Role

• Forms a critical pillar of India’s nuclear triad, ensuring second-strike capability.
• Enables credible deterrence through survivable underwater launch platforms.
• Enhances India’s strategic reach across regional and extra-regional theatres.
• Reduces dependence on land-based and air-based nuclear delivery systems.

Technical Features

• Missile length is approximately 12 metres, with a weight of about 17 tonnes.
• Uses a two-stage solid-fuel propulsion system for reliable performance.
• Has an operational range of around 3,500 kilometres.
• Represents a major advancement over K-15 missile, which had a 750-kilometre range.

Payload and Accuracy

• Capable of carrying up to two tonnes, including a nuclear warhead.
• Equipped with advanced inertial navigation system for guidance.
• Navigation is supported by GPS and India’s NavIC system.
• Reported circular error probable is below 10 metres, indicating high precision.

Launch and Survivability

• Designed for cold-launch capability from underwater platforms.
• Missile is ejected first before engine ignition, enhancing submarine safety.
• Features manoeuvrable re-entry capabilities to evade missile defence systems.
• Submarine-based deployment increases stealth and survivability during conflict.

Deployment Capacity

• Each Arihant-class submarine can carry four K-4 missiles.
• Supports longer patrol durations and credible continuous deterrence.
• Complements India’s evolving undersea nuclear force architecture.

Significance

• Marks a major leap in indigenous strategic missile technology.
• Reinforces India’s status as a mature nuclear power.
• Enhances deterrence stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Demonstrates progress in self-reliant defence manufacturing under Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Samudra Pratap

Overview

• Samudra Pratap is the first indigenously designed and built PCV of the Indian Coast Guard.
• It is constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited under the 02 PCV Project.
• The vessel significantly enhances India’s marine pollution response capability.
• It is currently the largest ship in the Indian Coast Guard fleet.

Role and Objectives

• Designed for marine pollution control and mitigation operations.
• Enables oil spill detection, containment, and recovery in Indian waters.
• Supports India’s obligations under international marine pollution conventions.
• Strengthens coastal security, environmental protection, and disaster response.

Technical Specifications

• Displacement: Approximately 4,170 tonnes, enabling long-endurance missions.
• Dynamic Positioning: Equipped with DP-1 capability for high-precision operations.
• Certified with FiFi-2 / FFV-2 notation for advanced firefighting capability.
• Designed for all-weather operations in offshore and coastal environments.

Armament and Defence Systems

• Fitted with 30 mm CRN-91 gun for surface defence.
• Equipped with two 12.7 mm stabilised remote-controlled guns.
• Integrated fire control systems ensure accurate targeting and response.

Advanced Onboard Systems

• Features Integrated Bridge System for navigation efficiency.
• Includes Integrated Platform Management System for machinery control.
• Equipped with Automated Power Management System for energy optimisation.
• High-capacity external firefighting system enhances emergency response.

Pollution Control Capabilities

• Advanced sensors to detect and monitor oil spills.
• Capable of recovering viscous oil and marine pollutants.
• Can separate oil from contaminated seawater onboard.
• Equipped for contaminant analysis during pollution incidents.

Strategic Significance

• Strengthens India’s Blue Economy and maritime environmental governance.
• Enhances ICG operational reach in Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
• Demonstrates progress in Atmanirbhar Bharat in shipbuilding.
• Critical for safeguarding marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods.