UPSC CARE 27th June 2025 Current Affairs

Current Affairs Reverse Engineering – Care (27-06-2025)

News at a Glance

Economy: India to Host Regional Centre of International Potato Center (CIP) in Agra

International Relations: India’s Stand at SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting, 2025

Environment and Ecology: Energy Institute’s 2025 Annual Statistical Review of World Energy

Record IBAT Alliance Investment in Biodiversity Data

Science and Technology: Shubhanshu Shukla became 634th astronaut to reach space

Discovery of the 48th Blood Group: Gwada Negative

India to Host Regional Centre of International Potato Center (CIP) in Agra

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/potato-research-center-agra-peru-india-importance-10090098/

UPSC Relevance: GS 3 Economy

Context: Global potato research centre

Why in News

The Union Cabinet has approved the setting up of the South Asia Regional Centre of the International Potato Center (CIP) in Agra.

Introduction

  • Recently, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the establishment of a South Asia Regional Centre of the International Potato Center (CIP) in Singna village, Agra district, Uttar Pradesh.
  • The new centre, to be called CIP-South Asia Regional Center (CSARC), is expected to enhance research and development in potato and sweet potato cultivation not only in India but also across South Asia.

About the International Potato Center (CIP)

  • The International Potato Center (CIP) was founded in 1971 and is headquartered in Lima, Peru.
  • It is a premier global research-for-development organisation focused on potatoes, sweet potatoes, and other Andean root and tuber crops.
  • The potato itself is native to the Peruvian-Bolivian Andes and spread globally through Spanish and Portuguese colonisation.
  • CIP has been active in India since 1975 through a partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), with an emphasis on cooperation in potato and sweet potato development.

Centre approves South Asia unit of International Potato Centre at Agra | India News - The Indian Express

Key Features of the Proposed CIP-South Asia Regional Center (CSARC)

Objectives

  • The primary goals of the proposed CSARC include:
  • Improving food and nutrition security through the development of advanced crop varieties.
  • Increasing farmers’ incomes and creating employment opportunities.
  • Enhancing potato and sweet potato productivity through scientific research.
  • Promoting post-harvest management, value addition, and food processing.
  • Developing climate-resilient and disease-free varieties suitable for commercial processing.

Financial Details

  • Total project cost: ₹171 crore
  • India’s contribution: ₹111.5 crore
  • CIP’s contribution: ₹60 crore
  • Land: 10 hectares provided by the Government of Uttar Pradesh

Implementation and Research Focus

  • The CSARC will bring advanced global research and innovation to Indian agriculture. It will have access to the world’s largest collection of potato and sweet potato germplasm and will collaborate with domestic institutions to develop new, high-yielding varieties tailored to the Indian climate.

Significance of the Project

Enhancing Domestic Production

  • India is the world’s second-largest potato producer, after China. However, its average yield remains around 25 tonnes per hectare, far below its potential of over 50 tonnes per hectare. One of the key constraints has been the limited availability of quality seeds.
  • Similarly, India’s sweet potato yield is only 11.5 tonnes per hectare, compared to its potential of 30 tonnes per hectare. The CSARC will help bridge this gap by promoting better seed production and reducing dependency on seed imports from neighbouring countries.

Support for Farmers and Industry

The center is expected to:

  • Enhance domestic seed production capacity.
  • Support local food processing industries through availability of quality raw material.
  • Promote exports of value-added potato and sweet potato products.
  • Strengthen India’s capacity in agricultural research and innovation.

Regional and International Context

  • The CSARC in Agra will be the second such regional centre of CIP outside Peru.
  • The first, the China Center for Asia Pacific (CCCAP), was set up in 2017 in Yanqing, Beijing, and serves China and the broader Asia-Pacific region.
  • India has already hosted other international agricultural institutions. In 2017, the Government of India supported the establishment of the International Rice Research Institute – South Asia Regional Centre (IRRI-SARC) in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.
  • The CSARC will cater not only to India’s major potato-growing states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, but also to neighbouring South Asian countries such as Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

India’s Position in Global Potato Production

According to data from 2020:

  • China produced 78.24 million tonnes of potatoes.
  • India produced 51.30 million tonnes.
  • Together, they accounted for over one-third of the global potato production, which stood at 359.07 million tonnes.
  • Within India, the top potato-producing states in 2020–21 were:
    • Uttar Pradesh: 15 million tonnes
    • West Bengal: 15 million tonnes
    • Bihar: 9 million tonnes
      Other significant producers include Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab.

Existing Research Infrastructure in India

  • India already has two major ICAR institutions dedicated to research on tuber crops:
  • ICAR-Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla – Specialises in potato research.
  • ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute (CTCRI), Thiruvananthapuram – Focuses on sweet potatoes and other tuber crops.
  • The new CSARC will complement these institutions by providing access to global expertise, genetic resources, and collaborative opportunities.

Conclusion

  • The establishment of the CIP-South Asia Regional Center in Agra represents a major advancement in India’s agricultural research and food security strategy.
  • By integrating global scientific knowledge with domestic agricultural needs, the center will play a critical role in improving productivity, reducing input costs, strengthening value chains, and enhancing exports.
  • It aligns with national goals of doubling farmers’ income, promoting climate-resilient agriculture, and ensuring nutritional security for a growing population.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q1. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding India’s role in global potato production and international research collaborations?

  1. India is the largest producer of potatoes in the world.
  2. Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal are among the top potato-producing states in India.
  3. India’s average potato yield is currently higher than its potential yield.
  4. The latest South Asia Regional Center of the International Potato Center (CIP) is being set up in Agra, India.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 2, 3 and 4 only
(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Q.   In the context of India’s preparation for Climate -Smart Agriculture, consider the following statements:(2021)

  1. The ‘Climate-Smart Village’ approach in India is a part of a project led by the Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Security (CCAFS), an international research programme.
  2. The project of CCAFS is carried out under Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) headquartered in France.
  3. The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) in India is one of the CGIAR’s research centres.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (d)

Answer 1- B

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is Incorrect – India is the second-largest potato producer in the world after China. As per 2020 data, China produced about 78.24 million tonnes while India produced 51.30 million tonnes. Therefore, India is not the largest producer globally.
  • Statement 2 is CorrectUttar Pradesh and West Bengal are indeed among the top potato-producing states in India. In 2020–21, each of these states produced approximately 15 million tonnes, making them leading contributors to India’s potato output.
  • Statement 3 is Incorrect – India’s average potato yield is currently around 25 tonnes per hectare, whereas its potential yield is estimated to be over 50 tonnes per hectare. Thus, the current yield is lower, not higher, than its potential.
  • Statement 4 is Correct – The latest South Asia Regional Center of the International Potato Center (CIP) is being established in Singna village, Agra district, Uttar Pradesh. This center will promote research on potato and sweet potato cultivation for India and the South Asia region.
  • Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

India’s Stand at SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting, 2025

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-refuses-to-sign-joint-statement-in-sco-summit/article69739189.ece

UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations

Context: SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting

Why in News

India opposed the SCO Defence Ministers’ joint statement in Qingdao over inadequate reference to the Pahalgam terror attack and diluted stance on terrorism.

Introduction

  • On June 26, 2025, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ meeting was held in Qingdao, Shandong province, China.
  • The meeting, aimed at promoting regional peace and security among member nations, ended without a joint statement due to India’s refusal to endorse the final document.

India’s Objection:

India, represented by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, declined to endorse the joint statement proposed by the host country China, citing the following key objections:

  • The statement did not mention the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians, including a Nepali national, were killed.
  • The statement included references to militant activities in Balochistan, which India perceived as an attempt by Pakistan and China to divert attention from Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Kashmir.
  • The dilution of focus on terrorism and lack of support for India’s stance prompted India to opt out.

TNPSC Current Affairs | TNPSC Monthly Current Affairs

The Pahalgam Terror Attack (April 22, 2025):

  • Perpetrated by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a UN-designated terror group.
  • Attack involved profiling of victims based on religious identity and killing of civilians, including foreign tourists.
  • India described the attack as “dastardly and heinous” and called for international condemnation and action.

India’s Position at SCO: Key Highlights from Rajnath Singh’s Address

  1. Zero Tolerance on Terrorism:
    • Emphasised that peace and prosperity cannot co-exist with terrorism or the proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) in the hands of non-state actors.
    • Called for decisive global action against nations that sponsor or provide safe havens to terrorists.
  2. Criticism of Double Standards:
    • Asserted that cross-border terrorism as state policy must be condemned unequivocally.
    • Urged SCO members to avoid double standards in counterterrorism cooperation.
  3. India’s Right to Self-Defence:
    • Reiterated India’s sovereign right to act against terror threats, especially across the border.
    • Recalled India’s strong retaliatory actions against terror epicentres, including military operations in the past.

“Operation Sindoor” (May 7, 2025):

In response to the Pahalgam attack, India launched “Operation Sindoor” with the following objectives:

  • Neutralize cross-border terror launchpads in Pakistan-occupied territories.
  • Disrupt terror logistics and communication networks linked to LeT and its proxies.
  • Reinforce India’s deterrent capability and send a message of no impunity for terrorism.

Diplomatic Developments:

  • India held bilateral talks with Defence Ministers of Russia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Belarus on the sidelines.
  • India pushed for enhanced regional cooperation on counterterrorism and non-traditional security threats.

Wider Geopolitical Implications:

1. India’s Diplomatic Assertion:

  • India’s refusal to sign the statement highlights a more assertive foreign policy posture on terrorism.
  • It reflects India’s desire to set the global narrative on cross-border terrorism rather than be a passive participant.

2. India-Pakistan-China Triangle in SCO:

  • India’s move may increase tensions with Pakistan and China, who appear to be aligning positions on deflecting focus from Kashmir to Balochistan.
  • May affect SCO’s unity on security cooperation.

3. Impact on FATF Grey List Diplomacy:

  • India may use the Pahalgam incident to re-raise concerns about Pakistan’s terror financing and push for greater scrutiny through bodies like the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

Conclusion:

  • India’s stance at the SCO Defence Ministers’ meeting is a significant assertion of its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, especially state-sponsored cross-border terror.
  • It also marks a strategic shift in India’s multilateral diplomacy, where national security interests and moral clarity on terrorism are not compromised for regional consensus.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q2. Consider the following statements regarding India’s stand at the SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting:

  1. India refused to sign the joint statement as it did not mention the Pahalgam terror attack.
  2. The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack.
  3. India launched “Operation Sindoor” to target terror infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Q.    The term ‘Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership’ often appears in the news in the context of the affairs of a group of countries known as? (2016)

(a) G20

(b) ASEAN

(c) SCO

(d) SAARC

Ans: (b)

Answer 2- A

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is Correct – India refused to endorse the SCO joint statement in Qingdao (June 2025) because it failed to mention the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians. India viewed this omission as undermining the global fight against terrorism.
  • Statement 2 is Correct – The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy of Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack. TRF is known to operate under LeT’s direction in Jammu & Kashmir.
  • Statement 3 is IncorrectOperation Sindoor was launched by India on May 7, 2025, to target cross-border terror infrastructure in Pakistan, not in Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

 

Energy Institute’s 2025 Annual Statistical Review of World Energy

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/energy-and-environment/global-energy-co2-emissions-reached-record-high-last-year-report-says/article69740205.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology

Context: Global carbon dioxide emissions

Why in News

The Energy Institute’s 2025 report reveals that global carbon dioxide emissions reached a new peak in 2024 despite strong growth in renewable energy.

Introduction

  • The Energy Institute, in collaboration with KPMG and Kearney, released its annual Statistical Review of World Energy on June 26, 2025.
  • This report has gained global significance for tracking energy trends and carbon emissions after taking over from British Petroleum (BP) in 2023.

Key Findings of the 2025 Report

1. Record-High Carbon Emissions

  • Global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from the energy sector reached a record high for the fourth consecutive year in 2024.
  • Emissions increased by approximately 1% and stood at 40.8 gigatonnes of CO₂ equivalent, surpassing the previous record.

2. Temperature Threshold Breached

  • The year 2024 was officially the hottest year ever recorded.
  • For the first time, global average temperatures exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, thereby breaching the critical threshold set under the Paris Agreement.

3. Growth in Energy Supply Across All Sources

  • Total energy supply increased by 2% in 2024, a rare occurrence last seen in 2006.
  • Growth was recorded across all energy sources:
    • Coal increased by 1.2% and remained the dominant source of global energy.
    • Natural gas had the highest growth among fossil fuels, rising by 2.5%.
    • Oil experienced growth of less than 1%.
    • Wind and solar energy grew by 16%, expanding nine times faster than total energy demand.
    • Nuclear and hydroelectric power also registered positive growth.

COVID-19 and the World Energy Outlook 2020 | Smart Energy International

Significance of the Report

1. Challenges to the Energy Transition

  • The findings highlight the increasing difficulty in transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable sources, despite significant investments in clean energy.
  • The continued growth of fossil fuel use negates much of the environmental gains made through renewables.

2. Impact of Geopolitical Tensions

  • The Russia-Ukraine war disrupted global oil and gas supply chains, particularly to Europe, leading to increased use of alternative fossil fuels such as liquefied natural gas.
  • Ongoing conflict in West Asia further contributed to concerns about the stability and security of global energy supplies.
  • These geopolitical events have shifted policy focus back toward ensuring energy security, often at the cost of sustainability goals.

3. Inadequate Progress toward Global Climate Goals

  • Despite the ambitious goals set during COP28 in Dubai (2023)—especially the commitment to triple global renewable capacity by 2030—the current pace of progress remains insufficient.
  • Analysts caution that the net-zero by 2050 target is increasingly out of reach unless global policy and implementation undergo significant acceleration.

Statistical Overview

Indicator

2024 Data

Carbon Emissions

40.8 gigatonnes (↑ 1%)

Global Temperature Rise

>1.5°C above pre-industrial levels

Total Energy Supply Growth

2%

Natural Gas Growth

2.5%

Coal Growth

1.2%

Oil Growth

<1%

Wind and Solar Growth

16%

Analytical Insights

1. Rapid Renewable Growth Is Not Sufficient

  • While wind and solar energy are expanding rapidly, the absolute rise in energy demand across sectors has offset the environmental benefits.
  • Renewable energy needs to grow at an even faster pace to displace fossil fuels effectively.

2. Energy Security vs Environmental Sustainability

  • Short-term policy decisions focused on energy security are undermining long-term environmental sustainability.
  • Nations continue to depend on fossil fuels due to:
    • Infrastructure constraints
    • Political resistance
    • Economic dependencies

This represents a classic conflict between developmental imperatives and environmental obligations.

Implications for India and the World

  • The report serves as a global warning that current policies are inadequate to meet internationally agreed climate goals.
  • For India, which is expanding both renewable and conventional energy sources, the report underscores the importance of balancing energy access, economic growth, and climate responsibility.
  • India must accelerate the deployment of renewables, reduce fossil fuel subsidies, and enhance energy efficiency to stay aligned with its own net-zero commitments.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q3. According to the Energy Institute’s 2025 Statistical Review of World Energy, which of the following statements is/are correct?

  1. 2024 was the first year when global average temperatures exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.
  2. Natural gas showed the highest growth among all fossil fuels in 2024.
  3. Renewable energy grew slower than total global energy demand in 2024.
  4. COP28, held in Dubai, aimed to triple global renewable capacity by 2050.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 4 only
D. 2, 3 and 4 only

Q.      Consider the following: (2019)

  1. Carbon monoxide
  2. Methane
  3. Ozone
  4. Sulphur dioxide

Which of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue? 

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3 and 4 only
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Ans: (d)

Answer 3- A

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is Correct – The report confirms that 2024 was the first year in recorded history when global average temperatures exceeded 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, breaching the key limit under the Paris Agreement.
  • Statement 2 is Correct – Among all fossil fuels, natural gas showed the highest increase in energy generation in 2024, growing by 2.5%, followed by coal (1.2%) and oil (less than 1%).
  • Statement 3 is IncorrectRenewable energy (wind and solar) grew by 16%, which is nine times faster than the overall growth in energy demand, making it significantly faster, not slower.
  • Statement 4 is IncorrectCOP28, held in Dubai in 2023, set the goal to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030, not by 2050. The 2050 target relates to achieving net-zero emissions.
  • Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

 

Record IBAT Alliance Investment in Biodiversity Data

Source: Down To Earth

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/wildlife-biodiversity/ibat-alliance-formed-by-four-largest-global-conservation-organisations-doubled-its-investment-in-biodiversity-data-from-2023-to-2024

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Environment and Ecology

Context: IBAT Alliance

Why in News

The IBAT Alliance’s record $2.5 million investment in 2024 strengthens global biodiversity conservation by enhancing key datasets like the IUCN Red List, WDPA, and WDKBA.

Introduction

  • On June 23, 2025, the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) Alliance announced that its investment in biodiversity data reached an unprecedented level of $2.5 million for the year 2024, marking a significant increase from $1.2 million in 2023.
  • This rise in funding is viewed as a critical step towards enhancing global biodiversity knowledge, conservation efforts, and integrating biodiversity data into environmental, corporate, and financial decision-making.

About the IBAT Alliance

The IBAT Alliance is a strategic collaboration among four of the world’s most influential environmental organisations:

  1. BirdLife International
  2. Conservation International
  3. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
  4. United Nations Environment Programme – World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC)

Together, these organisations manage and provide access to authoritative global biodiversity data to support conservation planning, environmental governance, and corporate sustainability efforts.

IBAT Alliance, formed by four largest global conservation organisations, doubled its investment in biodiversity data from 2023 to 2024

Purpose and Utilisation of the Investment

  • The record investment will be reinvested into the upkeep, development, and expansion of three of the world’s most comprehensive and authoritative biodiversity datasets.
  • These datasets play a central role in environmental monitoring, biodiversity conservation, and risk assessment:

1. World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA)

  • Maintained by UNEP-WCMC in collaboration with IUCN
  • Contains detailed information on the location, designation, and management of protected areas worldwide
  • Essential for tracking global conservation progress and supporting national reporting on biodiversity targets and commitments

2. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species

  • Often referred to as the “barometer of life”
  • Assesses the extinction risk of species across the globe, including animals, fungi, and plants
  • Informs conservation priorities and is used by governments, researchers, and businesses alike

3. World Database of Key Biodiversity Areas (WDKBA)

  • Identifies sites critical to the persistence of biodiversity
  • Supports spatial planning, conservation investment, and site-level management globally

Significance of the Development

Enhancing Scientific Understanding of Nature

The enhanced investment will support regular updates and improvements to biodiversity databases. These updates ensure access to reliable, science-based information which is critical for:

  • Assessing species vulnerability
  • Monitoring biodiversity trends
  • Identifying emerging ecological threats
  • Formulating evidence-based conservation strategies

Integration with Business and Financial Decision-Making

According to the IBAT Alliance, the increase in investment reflects a growing interest from the private sector and financial institutions in integrating biodiversity into their decision-making processes:

  • By the end of 2024, more than 200 private sector organisations had accessed IBAT data for early environmental risk screening and sustainability goal-setting
  • Businesses used the data to align with global biodiversity targets, such as those in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

This demonstrates a growing recognition that biodiversity is not only a conservation concern but also an economic and operational risk factor.

Supporting Environmental Governance and Accountability

IBAT’s datasets enable governments and corporations to meet regulatory and disclosure obligations, such as those outlined under:

  • The EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD)
  • The emerging Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures (TNFD) framework

The datasets are instrumental in developing nature-positive strategies, assessing ecological dependencies, and disclosing environmental risks.

Broader Implications

  • The growth in biodiversity data investment reflects enhanced global awareness about the urgency of biodiversity loss.
  • As biodiversity continues to decline worldwide, access to high-quality, timely, and standardised data becomes indispensable for meeting conservation targets.
  • The initiative helps create a more complete and interconnected understanding of nature, enabling more effective on-ground action.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q4. With reference to the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) Alliance, consider the following statements:

  1. It is a collaboration between four international organisations including IUCN and BirdLife International.
  2. It supports global biodiversity datasets such as the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species and the World Database on Protected Areas.
  3. It was formed under the Convention on Biological Diversity to implement the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Q.   ‘Invasive Species Specialist Group’ (that develops Global Invasive Species Database) belongs to which one of the following organizations? (2023)

(a) The International Union for Conservation of Nature

(b) The United Nations Environment Programme

(c) The United Nations World Commission for Environment and Development

(d) The World-Wide Fund for Nature

Ans: (a)

Answer – 4 – A

Explanation 

  • Statement 1 is Correct – The IBAT Alliance is a collaboration between four major global conservation organisations: BirdLife International, Conservation International, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), and the United Nations Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring Centre (UNEP-WCMC). These organisations work together to provide credible, science-based biodiversity data to inform conservation and business decisions.
  • Statement 2 is Correct – The IBAT Alliance supports and maintains three of the most authoritative global biodiversity datasets: the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA), and the World Database of Key Biodiversity Areas (WDKBA). These datasets are essential for environmental planning, early risk screening, and assessing progress toward global biodiversity targets.
  • Statement 3 is Incorrect – The IBAT Alliance was not formed under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). While it supports the implementation of biodiversity-related targets such as those in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, it is an independent initiative by four conservation organisations and is not a creation of the CBD.
  • Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Shubhanshu Shukla became 634th astronaut to reach space

Source: The Hindu

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/shubhanshu-shukla-634th-astronaut-to-reach-space/article69741889.ece

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology

Context: 634th astronaut to reach space & Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission

Why in News?

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the 634th astronaut to travel to space and the first Indian in 40 years to reach the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission.

Introduction

  • On June 26, 2025, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an Indian Air Force officer, made history by becoming India’s latest astronaut and the 634th human to travel to space.
  • He reached the International Space Station (ISS) aboard the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission, signifying India’s re-entry into human spaceflight after a gap of four decades.
  • This achievement places India in an elite league of nations contributing not only to space science and exploration but also to international human space missions.

Background: Axiom-4 Mission

  • Launched From: Kennedy Space Center, Florida (USA)
  • Date of Launch: June 25, 2025
  • Mission Duration: 14 days at the ISS
  • Spacecraft: SpaceX Crew Dragon
  • Mission Organizer: Axiom Space (a private American space company) in collaboration with NASA and international agencies

Crew Members:

  • Peggy Whitson (USA): Mission Commander, former NASA astronaut
  • Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla (India)
  • Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski (Poland)
  • Tibor Kapu (Hungary)

Axiom Mission 4 to ISS will include India, Poland, Hungary

India’s Role in Axiom-4

India’s participation marks a watershed moment in its space diplomacy and capability, showcasing collaboration with global space players like NASA and private entities such as Axiom Space.

  • Shukla’s inclusion in a private space mission emphasizes India’s increasing integration with the global space ecosystem.
  • It aligns with ISRO’s future ambitions, including the Gaganyaan mission, aimed at launching Indian astronauts on indigenous platforms.

Highlights of the Mission

1. Shubhanshu Shukla’s Journey to the ISS

  • Journey Duration: ~28 hours from launch to docking
  • Warmly received aboard the ISS by members of Expedition 73
  • Received astronaut pins in a symbolic welcome ceremony
  • Carried the Tiranga (Indian Tricolour) as a mark of national pride

2. Scheduled Activities on the ISS

  • Scientific Experiments: Collaborative research across domains like microgravity effects on human physiology, material science, and biology.
  • Educational Outreach: Interaction with students and scientists on Earth via live sessions.
  • Diplomatic and Cultural Representation: Flag-carrying mission for India in a global cooperative space setting.

National and Local Reaction

1. In India:

  • Widespread acclaim from scientific community, academia, and defence personnel
  • Seen as a boost to India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision in space exploration
  • Symbolic leap ahead of the Gaganyaan mission, currently under preparation

2. In Lucknow (Shukla’s hometown):

  • Emotional celebrations with family, friends, teachers, and students
  • Local schools and institutions organized viewings and discussions to mark the historic docking

Broader Implications for India’s Space Program

1. International Collaboration:

  • Enhances India’s credentials as a reliable spacefaring partner
  • Encourages joint ventures with private and public entities globally

2. Technological Leap:

  • Exposure to ISS infrastructure and operations informs India’s planning for Gaganyaan
  • Opportunity to learn from experienced astronauts like Peggy Whitson

3. Inspiration and Outreach:

  • Inspires Indian youth towards STEM education and careers in aerospace
  • Helps democratize interest in space missions beyond elite scientific circles.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

  • Human Spaceflight Readiness: India must ensure timely and safe implementation of the Gaganyaan mission with indigenous launch capability.
  • Private Sector Integration: India must develop a robust regulatory and financial framework to integrate startups and private players into manned missions.
  • Global Competition: As more nations and private players enter the domain, India must innovate rapidly and build strategic space partnerships.

Conclusion

  • Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s voyage to the ISS is not just a personal achievement but a symbol of India’s evolving identity as a global space power.
  • His mission exemplifies the power of cooperation, courage, and scientific ambition.
  • As India prepares for the Gaganyaan mission, such global ventures offer invaluable experience, visibility, and momentum.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q5. With reference to the Axiom-4 (Ax-4) space mission, consider the following statements:

  1. The mission carried astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary to the International Space Station (ISS).
  2. It was launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from the Kennedy Space Center in the USA.
  3. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla became the first Indian astronaut ever to visit space.
  4. Axiom Space is a private space company that organized the Ax-4 mission.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1, 2 and 3
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 4
D. 1 and 3 only

Q. “The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.”

The experiment in question refers to (2020)

(a) Voyager-2
(b) New Horizons
(c) LISA Pathfinder
(d) Evolved LISA

Ans: (d)

Answer – 5 – C

Explanation 

  • Statement 1 is Correct – The Axiom-4 mission included astronauts from India (Shubhanshu Shukla), Poland (Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski), and Hungary (Tibor Kapu), marking a significant multinational collaboration in commercial spaceflight.
  • Statement 2 is Correct – The mission was launched using the SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, USA, which is a frequent launch site for both NASA and commercial missions.
  • Statement 3 is IncorrectShubhanshu Shukla is not the first Indian in space; that distinction belongs to Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11 mission in 1984. Shukla is, however, the first Indian to reach the ISS through a commercial international collaboration.
  • Statement 4 is CorrectAxiom Space is a private space company based in the United States that specializes in commercial space missions and organized the Ax-4 mission in coordination with NASA and SpaceX.
  • Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

Discovery of the 48th Blood Group: Gwada Negative

Source: Indian Express

https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/gwada-negative-scientists-identify-new-blood-group-france-10090815/

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology

Context: Gwada Negative

Why in News

In 2025, French scientists discovered the world’s 48th blood group, “Gwada Negative”, in a woman from Guadeloupe, highlighting advances in genetic research and transfusion medicine.

Introduction

  • In a landmark advancement in medical science, researchers in France have identified the 48th blood group ever discovered globally, named “Gwada Negative”, in a woman of Caribbean descent from Guadeloupe.
  • This unprecedented discovery, made more than a decade after a routine pre-surgical blood test in 2011, has implications for transfusion medicine, genetics, and rare disease diagnosis.

Background and Significance

  • The discovery was made by the French Blood Establishment (EFS) and recognized by the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) in June 2025.
  • Named “Gwada Negative”, the blood group pays tribute to the woman’s Caribbean heritage, with “Gwada” being a colloquial term for Guadeloupe.
  • The woman is currently the only known individual with this blood type, making her blood autologous, i.e., only usable for herself in transfusions.

Scientific Process Behind the Discovery

  • The presence of a rare antibody in the woman’s blood was first detected in 2011, but due to limited resources, comprehensive research was delayed.
  • In 2019, high-throughput DNA sequencing enabled scientists to identify a novel genetic mutation, inherited from both parents.
  • This represents a recessive inheritance pattern, where both parents are carriers, although asymptomatic.

new blood group gwada

Implications for Science and Medicine

  1. Improved Patient Care
    • Expanding blood group classifications enables precise matching in transfusion therapy, especially for individuals with rare blood types.
    • It reduces the risk of hemolytic transfusion reactions, which can be life-threatening.
  2. Ethical and Logistical Challenges
    • Individuals with ultra-rare blood groups face a high risk of medical vulnerability, especially in emergencies.
    • Raises the need for global rare donor registries and cryopreservation of such rare blood samples.
  3. Advancement in Genomic Research
    • Demonstrates the power of next-generation sequencing (NGS) to uncover hidden variations in the human genome.
    • Paves the way for personalized medicine and genetic counseling, especially in multi-ethnic societies.
  4. Public Health Awareness
    • Emphasizes the need for diverse blood donation campaigns, especially among underrepresented ethnic groups.
    • Highlights the importance of international cooperation in transfusion research.

Broader Context and Way Forward

  • The first human blood groups were discovered by Karl Landsteiner in 1901, revolutionizing transfusion medicine.
  • Since then, advancements in molecular genetics have led to the classification of more than 45 blood group systems, including the well-known ABO, Rh, Kell, and Duffy systems.
  • The addition of Gwada Negative reflects the complexity and diversity of human genetics and the necessity for inclusive global health systems.
  • Ongoing research is now focused on identifying others who may carry or express this rare blood group through genetic screening of Caribbean populations and their descendants worldwide.

CARE MCQ

UPSC PYQ

Q6. With reference to the discovery of the blood group “Gwada Negative,” consider the following statements:

  1. It is the 48th blood group to be officially recognised by the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT).
  2. The blood group was identified using high-throughput DNA sequencing technology.
  3. Individuals with this blood group can safely receive blood from any universal donor.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Q.  A married couple adopted a male child. A few years later, twin boys were born to them. The blood group of the couple is AB positive and O negative. The blood group of the three sons is A positive, B positive and O positive. The blood group of the adopted son is(2011)

(a) O positive

(b) A positive

(c) B positive

(d) Cannot be determined on the basis of the given data

Ans: (a)

 

Answer – 6 – A

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is Correct“Gwada Negative” is the 48th blood group recognised by the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT). It was discovered in a woman of Guadeloupean origin and announced by the French Blood Establishment (EFS) in 2025.
  • Statement 2 is Correct – The identification of this ultra-rare blood group was made possible through high-throughput DNA sequencing, a modern genetic technique that allows rapid analysis of genomic mutations.
  • Statement 3 is Incorrect – Individuals with “Gwada Negative” blood type cannot receive blood from any universal donor. Since the blood group is uniquely rare and currently found in only one known individual globally, she can receive blood only from herself, making transfusion extremely complex.
  • Therefore, option A is the correct answer.
UPSC CARE 26th June 2025 Current Affairs
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