Daily Current Affairs Dt.19.06.2025 for UPSC ,SSC, State PCS and competitive exam.

1.India’s Largest Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal Inaugurated.

Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal – Manesar (2025)

Inaugurated by: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw
Location: Manesar, Haryana
Key Feature: India’s largest multimodal Gati Shakti Cargo Terminal (GCT)
Partner: Maruti Suzuki India Ltd
Project under: PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multimodal Connectivity

UPSC-Relevant Themes

Authentic Previous Year UPSC Questions Mains Questions

1. UPSC CSE Mains 2022 – GS Paper 3 Q: “PM Gati Shakti scheme aims to transform infrastructure and logistics in India. Critically examine the potential and challenges of this initiative.” ✅ Relevance: The Manesar GCT is a direct implementation of this scheme. Understanding how multimodal integration works in practice strengthens answer quality.

UPSC CSE Mains 2020 – GS Paper 3 Q: “Explain the meaning of investment models. Discuss the importance of PPP in the context of infrastructure development in India.” ✅ Relevance: The Manesar terminal is a clear example of the PPP model – Maruti Suzuki and Indian Railways partnered, showcasing cost-sharing and infrastructure modernization.

3. UPSC CSE Mains 2016 – GS Paper 3 Q: “What are the reasons for poor industrial growth in India? Examine the role of infrastructure in industrial development.” ✅ Relevance: The Manesar GCT enhances industrial logistics and connectivity to over 380 cities – directly linked to industrial performance.

Prelims Questions

While there hasn’t been a direct Prelims question on Gati Shakti Cargo Terminals, the following question is closely aligned:

UPSC Prelims 2022:

Q: “With reference to ‘PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan’, consider the following statements:

1. It is a digital platform to bring 16 Ministries together for integrated planning and coordinated implementation of infrastructure connectivity projects.
2. It is aimed at reducing logistics costs and improving infrastructure efficiency.
   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
   A. 1 only
   B. 2 only
   C. Both 1 and 2
   D. Neither 1 nor 2

✅ ANS: C. Both 1 and 2

✔️ Relevance: The Manesar GCT is a practical implementation of Gati Shakti’s objectives — reducing freight time, cost, and improving multimodal logistics efficiency.

Summary for UPSC Prep

2.CROPIC: AI‑Powered Crop Monitoring

What is CROPIC?
CROPIC stands for Collection of Real‑Time Observations & Photo of Crops—an AI-driven initiative under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.

Pilot Phase (Kharif 2025 & Rabi 2025–26):

• Deployed in 50 districts across diverse agro-climatic zones.
• For three major notified crops in each district.

How It Works:

1. Crowdsourced Imagery: Farmers and officials click geo-tagged field photos (4–5 times/crop cycle) via the CROPIC mobile app.
2. AI & Computer Vision: Cloud‑based AI analyzes images for crop type, growth stage, health, and damage.
3. Dashboard Analytics: A web dashboard visualizes insights for officials, aiding real-time decision-making .
4. Insurance Integration: Automates PMFBY claim assessments and payouts with photographic evidence.

Funding:
Supported by the Fund for Innovation & Technology (FIAT) under PMFBY, with a budget allocation of ₹825 crore .

Roadmap:
Initial pilots in 2025 seasons, nationwide implementation expected from 2026 for all PMFBY crops

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3 (Technology in Agriculture): Use of AI and computer vision in improving crop health monitoring and risk management.
• GS Paper 2/3 (Governance & Scheme Implementation): Efficient execution of PMFBY and enhancements in agricultural insurance mechanisms.
• GS Paper 3 (Economy & Sustainable Development): Reliable farm data aiding in policy planning, crop insurance claims, and climate resilience.

Past-Year UPSC Question Linkage

While CROPIC itself hasn’t been directly asked, similar themes have appeared:

Prelims-Style (via ATIGyan sample):

Q: Which of the following correctly describes the purpose of CROPIC?

1. Monitoring crop health and stress throughout the crop cycle.
2. Automating crop loss assessment for faster insurance claim settlements.
3. Providing real-time weather forecasts via the app.
4. Creating a market platform for direct sales.
   Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

This aligns directly with CROPIC’s core functions.

Mains-Style Linkage:

Previous UPSC questions on similar themes include:

• GS3 (2019): “Satellite remote sensing is used to estimate chlorophyll content, greenhouse gas emissions and land surface temperatures—discuss.”—Showcases tech in agri monitoring, analogous to CROPIC’s role in AI-driven imagery.

Summary Table

Takeaway for UPSC Aspirants:
CROPIC is a prime example of integrating emerging technology into agricultural policy and insurance frameworks. It effectively addresses GS3 themes of “Science & Technology” and “Economy”, and GS2/3 themes of “Government Schemes” and “Sustainable Development”

3.ICR-ER, NDEM Lite 2.0, Flood Hazard Atlas Launched:Disaster Management Tech Launch in Assam.

What was launched?

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has launched three cutting-edge technology platforms—Integrated Control Room for Emergency Response (ICR-ER), National Database for Emergency Management Lite 2.0 (NDEM Lite 2.0), and the Flood Hazard Zonation Atlas of Assam—at the annual conference of Relief Commissioners, Disaster Management Secretaries, and State Disaster Response Forces in Guwahati, Assam. These platforms are set to revolutionize India’s approach to disaster management by enhancing real-time response, data precision, and flood mitigation efforts nationwide.

• Integrated Control Room for Emergency Response (ICR-ER): A national-level command centre under MHA equipped to stream real-time satellite data to rescue agencies, enabling rapid response nationwide.
• National Database for Emergency Management (NDEM Lite 2.0): A streamlined digital platform uniting NDRF, SDRF, and other teams through real-time GIS data and coordinated action.
• Flood Hazard Zonation Atlas (Assam): Satellite-based mapping (1998–2023) identifying flood-prone zones, river water‑level trends, and risk areas to assist in mitigation and evacuation planning. Approximately 28.5% of Assam is affected.

Launch context: These tools were unveiled at the National Relief Commissioners’ conference held in Guwahati on June 16–17, 2025. Home Minister emphasised the shift from a relief-centric to a proactive “zero casualty” disaster management model.

Mandate issued: Every District Relief Commissioner is required to formulate a District Disaster Management Plan within 90 days to reinforce local preparedness infrastructure.

UPSC Relevance & Thematic Linkages

These initiatives illustrate India’s evolution towards leveraging real-time remote sensing, GIS, and satellite technology in disaster preparedness and mitigation — key aspects of GS 3’s environment & tech integration.

Previous UPSC Questions – Directly Related Themes

There aren’t direct questions on ICR-ER or NDEM Lite 2.0, but the following past questions resonate with the technology and policy approach:

Mains-style (GS 3)

“Satellite remote sensing is used to estimate chlorophyll content, greenhouse gas emissions and land-surface temperatures. Critically evaluate its significance in environmental management.” (UPSC CSE 2019)

Relevance: Flood zoning uses similar satellite-based data and GIS tools, critical in environmental management and early warning systems.

Mains-style (GS 2)

“Examine the effectiveness of e‑governance in disaster management in India. Give examples.” (Based on pattern)

Relevance: ICR-ER and NDEM Lite 2.0 exemplify e-governance in disaster response through integrated digital platforms.

Summary Snapshot

• Key Tools: ICR‑ER, NDEM Lite 2.0, Assam Flood Atlas
• Tech Used: Real‑time satellite monitoring, GIS, disaster dashboards
• Impact: Faster response, unified coordination, data‑driven flood preparedness
• Policy Shift: Moving from post-disaster relief to proactive “zero-casualty” strategy
• UPSC Insights: Ecosystem for tech-enabled governance ➝ strong fodder for GS 2 & 3 answers

4.Extreme Heat Risk in India: CEEW Report Highlights

A major new report by the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW) reveals that 76% of India’s population—living in 57% of the country’s districts—is now at high or very high risk from extreme heat. This risk is most acute in states such as Delhi, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh.

Key Findings

• Record-Breaking Heat: The year 2024 was the hottest ever recorded globally and in India, with the country experiencing its longest and most intense heatwave since 2010.
• Widespread Risk: The CEEW study mapped heat risk across 734 districts using 35 indicators spanning hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. About 57% of districts, home to 76% of the population, face high to very high heat risk.
• Top 10 High-Risk States/UTs: Delhi, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh are most affected.

What Drives Extreme Heat Risk?

• Rising Nighttime Temperatures: The number of very warm nights is increasing faster than hot days. Over 70% of districts saw at least five more very warm nights per summer (March–June) between 2012 and 2022, compared to previous decades.
• Humidity Compounds Risk: Increased relative humidity—especially in northern and typically dry regions—makes it harder for the human body to cool, intensifying health impacts.
• Vulnerable Populations: Children, the elderly, pregnant women, marginalized communities, and those with chronic diseases are at higher risk.
• Urbanization and Land Use: Changes in land cover, high population density, and lack of green spaces increase exposure and vulnerability.

Understanding Heat Risk vs. Heatwaves and Heat Stress

• Heatwaves: Prolonged periods of abnormally high temperatures in a region.
• Heat Stress: When body temperature exceeds 37°C, leading to health issues; above 40°C can cause heat stroke.
• Heat Risk: The probability of illness or death due to extreme temperatures, determined by intensity (including humidity), exposure, and community vulnerability.

Health and Societal Impact

• Public Health Threat: Warmer nights prevent the body from recovering after hot days, increasing risks of heat stroke and worsening conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
• Recent Toll: In 2024, over 40,000 suspected heatstroke cases and at least 110 confirmed deaths were reported between March and June.

Recommendations and Way Forward

• Early Warning and Action Plans: The report calls for integrating humidity and demographic data into heat risk assessments, establishing a national database of heat action plans, and improving public health resilience.
• District-Level Planning: Detailed mapping enables targeted interventions, especially for the most vulnerable districts and populations.
• Climate Adaptation: As climate change drives more frequent and severe heat events, urgent scaling up of resilience measures is essential

UPSC Relevance

• GS 3 (Environment & Climate): Heatwaves as “invisible disasters”—drivers, risk amplification, urban heat islands.
• GS 2/3 (Governance & Public Health): Policy-level disaster classification, e-governance in issuing early warnings and managing HAPs.
• GS 3 (Economy): Link between climate extremes and economic losses—labour productivity, GDP contraction.
• Map Incorporation: District-level heat risk maps offer empirical depth for essay answers and policy-oriented questions.

Previous UPSC-Style Question Relevance

• 2019 GS3 Mains: “Satellite remote sensing is used to estimate chlorophyll content, greenhouse gas emissions and land-surface temperatures—discuss its significance in environmental management.”
  •  Heat zoning and early warning systems are direct extensions of satellite-based environmental monitoring.

5.The Green India Mission Revised Plan released, focusing on afforestation, climate resilience, and sustainable land use.

Green India Mission Revised Plan (2021–2030): Key Highlights

The Green India Mission (GIM), one of India’s eight National Missions under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), has released its revised plan for 2021–2030. This updated roadmap aims to accelerate India’s climate resilience, expand afforestation efforts, and promote sustainable land use, aligning with India’s international climate commitments and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

• Introduced under NAPCC as one of eight missions, GIM targets holistic afforestation and ecosystem restoration .
• Goals for 2021–30:
  • Increase forest/tree cover by 5 mha, and improve quality on another 5 mha of degraded/non-forest land .
  • Enhance ecosystem services—biodiversity, groundwater recharge, carbon sequestration (@50–60 Mt CO₂/year), fuel/fodder resources, and wetland/mangrove protection .
  • Boost livelihoods: support ~3 million rural households through forestry-based income .

Strategic Components

• Sub‑Missions include:
  • Forest-quality enhancement (SM‑1)
  • Ecosystem restoration (SM‑2)
  • Urban & peri‑urban greening (SM‑3)
  • Agroforestry & social forestry (SM‑4)
  • Wetland restoration (SM‑5) .
• Funding & convergence:
  • CAMPA and MGNREGS synergy promotes participatory actions by joint forest management/co‑management groups.
  • Supreme Court support – ₹6,000 cr to afforest 6 mha of degraded forest land .

Challenges & Performance

Relevance for UPSC

Previous Year UPSC Questions

• Mains Related Themes Discuss the importance of afforestation and ecosystem services in India’s climate change strategy.
  Evaluate the role and challenges of convergence between MGNREGS and forest missions.

6.A new species of jumping spider, Spartaeus karigiri, has been discovered in southern India, highlighting the region’s biodiversity.

About Spartaeus karigiri

• Species Name: Spartaeus karigiri—a new jumping spider in the subfamily Spartaeinae (Salticidae) .
• Discovery Location: First documented in Karigiri (Elephant Hill), Devarayanadurga, Karnataka; also found in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu .
• Biogeography: Marks the first record of the genus Spartaeus (and Sonoita) in India, previously known only in Southeast Asia and Africa .
• Habitat: Prefers rocky outcrops and forested terrain; shelters in crevices and old wall fissures, spin retreat shelters from silk .
• Behavior & Morphology: Exhibits smart hunting using visual acuity, web-invasion, and prey mimicry. Male and female morphologies distinctly captured in holotype & paratype images .

Eco-significance

• Biodiversity Impact: India’s Spartaeinae diversity now includes 15 species across 10 genera .
• Distributional Insight: Extends known range of Spartaeus and Sonoita—first continental Indian presence .
• Indicator Potential: Jumping spiders are excellent ecological indicators—reflect habitat health and help in pest control

UPSC Relevance

• Prelims
  • Category: Jumping spider (Salticidae) → potential MCQ
  • Identification: Belongs to subfamily Spartaeinae; distinct genus record in India.
• Mains (GS-3, Biodiversity & Ecology)
  • Discuss: Role of new species discoveries in assessing ecological richness and need for conservation.
  • Example: Spartaeus karigiri expands India’s biodiversity record, underscoring the Western Ghats–Deccan region’s ecological significance.

Summary Table

7.Performance Grading Index (PGI) 2.0 Findings.State-Wise Progress & Infrastructure Improvements

The Ministry of Education has released the latest Performance Grading Index (PGI) 2.0 report for 2023–24, providing a comprehensive assessment of school education quality across Indian states and union territories. The PGI 2.0 framework evaluates performance using 73 indicators grouped into six domains: Learning Outcomes, Access, Infrastructure & Facilities, Equity, Governance Processes, and Teacher Education & Training.

Top Movers & Highlights

• Bihar & Telangana: Registered the most significant improvement in the Access domain—indicating better enrolment, retention, and reach of schooling.
• Delhi, Jammu & Kashmir, Telangana: Made substantial strides in Infrastructure & Facilities, enhancing school buildings, sanitation, digital classrooms, etc.
• Despite progress, no state or UT secured the highest “Daksh” grade—revealing that even top performers have room to improve across key metrics.

Delhi’s Leap

• Moved from Akanshi-1 to Prachesta-3, recording a 44-point increase in its PGI score for 2023–24—a testament to focused policy measures and interventions.

PGI 2.0: Framework Overview

• Comprises 73 indicators across six domains:
  1. Learning Outcomes
  2. Access
  3. Infrastructure & Facilities
  4. Equity
  5. Governance Processes
  6. Teacher Education & Training
• States/UTs are graded on a 1,000-point scale, with grades ranging from Daksh (941–1000) to Akanshi-3 (≤460).

Key Takeaways

• Positive Movement: Improved Access in underperforming states like Bihar and Telangana indicates expansion in enrollment and retention.
• Infrastructure Gains: Gains in Delhi, J&K, and Telangana suggest better school facilities—a critical enabler for learning.
• Yet, no state has yet reached the pinnacle (“Daksh” or “Utkarsh”), highlighting persistent gaps in learning outcomes, governance, and teacher quality.

UPSC Relevance

Past UPSC Question Linkages

• Mains (GS 2/3):
  Q: “Assess the impact of NEP 2020 on school infrastructure and access. In your view, is the current system equipped to meet the policy’s goals?”

8.3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNCO3) 2025: A Global Push for Marine Conservation and Sustainable Ocean Management.

The 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNCO3) was held from June 9 to 13, 2025 in Nice, France. This high-profile international event brought together governments, scientists, civil society, and private sector stakeholders to accelerate global efforts toward marine conservation and the sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.

Background and Context

• The UN Ocean Conferences are convened under the auspices of the United Nations to support the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water.
• The first two conferences were held in New York in 2017 and 2020, focusing on reversing the decline in ocean health and promoting sustainable fisheries.
• UNCO3 aimed to build on previous commitments and mobilize new partnerships, policies, and financing mechanisms to address emerging challenges.

Key Themes and Objectives

1. Marine Biodiversity Protection
   • Strengthening global commitments to protect at least 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030 (the “30×30” target).
   • Promoting marine protected areas (MPAs) and biodiversity hotspots conservation.
2. Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture
   • Encouraging responsible fishing practices to prevent overexploitation.
   • Supporting small-scale fishers and coastal communities.
3. Ocean Pollution Reduction
   • Tackling marine plastic pollution and chemical contaminants.
   • Enhancing waste management and circular economy approaches.
4. Climate Change and Ocean Resilience
   • Addressing ocean warming, acidification, and sea-level rise.
   • Promoting blue carbon ecosystems like mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes for carbon sequestration.
5. Science, Technology, and Innovation
   • Leveraging satellite monitoring, AI, and data-sharing to improve ocean governance.
   • Enhancing capacity building and technology transfer to developing countries.
6. Financing and Partnerships
   • Mobilizing public and private finance for ocean conservation projects.
   • Fostering multi-stakeholder partnerships including governments, NGOs, and businesses.

India’s Role and Contributions

• India reaffirmed its commitment to SDG 14 through initiatives like the National Marine Fisheries Policy and Blue Economy Mission.
• Highlighted efforts to combat marine pollution, promote sustainable fisheries, and conserve coastal ecosystems.
• Advocated for equitable access to marine resources and technology sharing among developing nations.

Outcomes and Declarations

• Adoption of a Call for Action urging accelerated implementation of SDG 14 targets.
• Commitment to enhance international cooperation on marine scientific research.
• Pledges to increase funding for ocean conservation, especially in vulnerable regions.
• Strengthened frameworks for monitoring and reporting ocean health indicators.

Importance for UPSC and Competitive Exams

• The conference is a key development under Environment and Ecology and International Relations syllabus.
• Understanding SDG 14 and global ocean governance is critical for questions on sustainable development.
• Highlights India’s proactive role in global environmental diplomacy.

Quick Facts

9.UNGA Establishes International Day Against Unilateral Coercive Measures.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has officially proclaimed December 4 as the International Day Against Unilateral Coercive Measures, to be observed annually starting in 2025. This move comes after the Assembly adopted a resolution with 116 votes in favor, 51 against, and 6 abstentions. Countries from the Global North—including the European Union, Australia, Britain, Canada, Japan, and the United States—voted against the resolution.

What’s New?
By a 116–51–6 vote, the UN General Assembly has proclaimed 4 December each year as the International Day Against Unilateral Coercive Measures, commencing in 2025 .

Why It Matters:

• Aims to spotlight the adverse effects of unilateral economic, financial, and trade sanctions that are imposed outside the framework of international law and UN Charter .
• Highlights humanitarian impacts—blocking access to food, medicines, technology, development, and disrupting global supply chains .

Global Reaction:

• Supported by 116 countries, particularly from the Global South, viewing such measures as coercive and inequitable .
• Opposed by 51 (including US, EU, Japan, Australia, Canada, UK), arguing that sanctions are legitimate tools under international peace and security frameworks.

UPSC Relevance (GS 2 & 3):

• Ties into International Relations: use of sanctions, multilateralism vs unilateralism.
• Highlights International Law: basis in UN Charter, rule of law norms.
• About Global Governance: normative restraint on economic coercion and reinforcing multilateral dispute resolution.

2. Election of Members to UNCITRAL

What’s UNCITRAL?
The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law, established in 1966, is the UN’s core body for harmonizing and modernizing international trade law. It drafts conventions, model laws, and standards to facilitate global commerce .

Recent Elections:
The UN General Assembly has elected 34 member states to UNCITRAL for six-year terms, replacing half of its membership every three years .

Notable Newly-Elected States (Asia-Pacific Example):

• Vietnam (re-elected)
• Philippines (elected; term starts 7 July 2025)
• Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea were also elected .

UPSC Relevance (GS 2 & 3):

• Shows India’s indirect influence in shaping international trade law.
• Relevant to international economic law: treaties on e-commerce, dispute resolution, insolvency—key for GS3.
• Highlights the role of Global Legal Norms and multilateral rule-making mechanisms.

Summary for UPSC

10.GDP Base Year Update: Need for Transparency

Background: India’s GDP Base Year Revision

• The Government announced revising the GDP base year from 2011–12 to 2022–23, with MoSPI aiming for release by February 2026 .
• A 26-member Advisory Committee on National Accounts Statistics (ACNAS), chaired by Biswanath Goldar—including RBI, central/state officials, academia—was formed to guide methodology and incorporate new data sources .

Why Transparency is Critical

• Restoring Credibility: The 2015 revision faced criticism for over-reliance on corporate MCA-21 data, potentially overstating growth and eroding trust .
• Global Standards Alignment: Frequent (every 5–10 years) base year updates align with UN/IMF recommendations, ensuring data comparability and reducing inflation biases .
• Enhanced Policymaking: A reliable base year reflects actual economic structure—services, digital platforms, informal sector—vital for informed decisions .

Expert Recommendations for a Robust Process

Based on recent expert insights:

1. Methodological Clarity
   • Publish a technical white paper detailing:
     • Sector weight computation,
     • Deflator usage (preferably double deflation),
     • Back series methodology
   • Address past corporate bias and data gaps transparently .
2. Independent Third‑Party Reviews
   • Engage IMF, World Bank, academic peers for impartial assessments.
   • Encourage academic and civil society oversight .
3. Regular Scheduled Updates
   • Institutionalize base-year revisions every 5 years per National Statistical Commission norms—not skip cycles (like 2017–18) .
4. Hybrid Data Sources
   • Combine corporate (MCA‑21) and survey-based data (e.g., ASI, PLFS, CES).
   • Integrate administrative digital indicators (UPI, GST, EPFO) to capture informal economy growth .
5. Institutional Accountability
   • Empower NSC or MoSPI to own transparent communication.
   • Create a dedicated portal with:
     • Methodology,
     • Data releases,
     • Peer reviews to reinforce public trust .

Implications for Policy and Credibility

• Economic Decision‑making: A transparent, accurate GDP base aids in setting budgets, evaluating sectoral growth, and calibrating fiscal/monetary strategy.
• Investor Confidence: Reliable macro-data is key to attracting global investment and improving India’s economic ratings.
• International Comparability: Aligning with global norms supports India’s positioning in G20, IMF, and multilateral dialogues.

UPSC Relevance

Suggested UPSC Mains Question

Q: “Revising the GDP base year enhances policy formulation and global credibility. Critically analyze the issues in India’s base year revisions so far and suggest measures to strengthen the process.”

• Approach: Define GDP base-year; assess need and impact; examine past challenges (2015 MCA bias, skipped cycles, data gaps); propose measures (methodology, reviews, regularity); conclude on policy and investment significance.

11.First India–US Special Forces Exercise ‘Tiger Claw 2025’: Key Highlights.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and United States Air Force (USAF) successfully concluded their first-ever independent Special Forces exercise, ‘Tiger Claw 2025’, marking a significant milestone in bilateral military cooperation and special operations interoperability.

Exercise Overview

• Dates: May 26 – June 10, 2025
• Location: Conducted across various sites in North India, with the final phase at the Garud Regimental Training Centre (GRTC), Air Force Station Chandinagar, Uttar Pradesh.
• Participants: Elite Garud Commandos (IAF) and USAF Special Tactics Squadron.
• Objective:
  • Enhance interoperability and operational synergy between Indian and US Special Forces.
  • Exchange best practices in special operations.
  • Conduct joint training and combat simulations, including hostage rescue, airfield seizure, and behind-enemy-lines operations.

Significance and Strategic Context

• First Independent Air Force Special Forces Drill: This was the inaugural exclusive Special Forces collaboration between the IAF and USAF, separate from broader joint exercises like Cope India, Tarang Shakti, and Red Flag.
• Strengthening Indo-Pacific Security: The exercise is a part of ongoing efforts to boost Indo-Pacific defense cooperation and enhance Quad-level interoperability.
• Symbolism: The exercise’s name, “Tiger Claw,” evokes strength, precision, and dominance—qualities central to special operations forces.

Key Activities

• Joint training missions and tactical drills
• Combat simulations and operational planning
• Hostage rescue and airfield seizure exercises
• Exchange of special operations tactics and procedures

Broader Impact

• Deepening Strategic Partnership: Reflects the growing convergence of India and the US in defense, especially in special operations and counterterrorism.
• Institutional Exchanges: Builds on existing military cooperation and paves the way for more robust future engagements between the two nations’ armed forces

UPSC Relevance

12.Anuradha Thakur Appointed First Woman Secretary of the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA).

Appointment Details

• A 1994-batch Himachal Pradesh cadre IAS officer, Thakur was appointed Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) in April 2025 .
• She will take charge as Secretary, DEA on 1 July 2025, succeeding Ajay Seth .
• This marks a historic first: Thakur will be the first woman to head India’s top economic policymaking department

Additional Roles

• From 16 June 2025, she has served as an ex‑officio part‑time member of the SEBI board, by virtue of her position.
• As DEA Secretary, she is expected to also represent the government on the RBI central board (pending notification).

Background & Credentials

• A seasoned technocrat, Thakur has a background in corporate affairs and financial oversight:
  • She served as Additional Secretary in MCA
  • Former Director, Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO)
  • Led Air India’s strategic disinvestment, and helped launch the Bharat Bond ETF .
• Her appointment to DEA, which oversees critical areas like fiscal policy, external debt, economic bilateral relations, and interfacing with global financial institutions, underlines the breadth of her experience .

Broader Impact

Anuradha Thakur’s appointment is a landmark in India’s administrative history, reflecting the increasing inclusion of women in senior leadership roles within the government. Her extensive experience in economic administration and regulatory enforcement positions her to contribute significantly to India’s economic policymaking and reform agenda.

UPSC Relevance

For UPSC Aspirants

• Prelims Fact: Anuradha Thakur becomes the first woman Secretary of DEA (effective 1 July 2025).
• Mains Framing:
  • “Discuss the importance of gender diversity in key economic decision-making positions in India.”
  • “Examine the evolving role of DEA in India’s macroeconomic governance and global financial integration“

13.Cristiano Ronaldo Named Global Ambassador for Esports World Cup 2025.

Ronaldo as Global Ambassador – Esports World Cup 2025

• Appointed: On June 13, 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo was officially named Global Ambassador for the upcoming Esports World Cup 2025, scheduled in Riyadh from July 8 to August 24 .
• Tournament Scale: The event will feature 25 competitive games, boast a $70 million prize pool, and stands as one of the largest esports events in history .
• Ronaldo’s Vision: He emphasized the dedication and intensity of esports athletes, equating them to traditional sports professionals, and expressed pride in supporting them .
• Esports Involvements: Ronaldo’s long-standing connection includes collaborations with Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer, UFL, and a playable character in Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves, one of the Esports World Cup titles .

Why It Matters

• Bridging Real & Digital Sports: Ronaldo’s involvement boosts crossover appeal, attracting global attention to esports from traditional sports fans.
• Strategic Growth: Aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 push to turn Riyadh into a global gaming hub through the Public Investment Fund and Esports World Cup Foundation .
• Brand Value Catalyst: Leveraging Ronaldo’s massive reach (over a billion followers), the tournament taps into large global audiences, boosting visibility and sponsor interest .

UPSC Relevance

• GS-2 (International Relations): Reflects cultural diplomacy and public-private synergy in global soft power projection.
• GS-3 (Economy): Highlights convergence of sports, entertainment, and digital economies, including esports’ rising revenue and employment potential.
• GS-3 (Tech & Innovation): Signals how traditional sporting icons influence emerging tech-driven industries like esports.
• GS-2/3 (Global Policy): Tied to Saudi Arabia’s geopolitical strategy under Vision 2030—using large-scale events for global engagement.

Suggested UPSC Mains Question

Q: “Celebrity ambassadors like Cristiano Ronaldo are being leveraged to popularize emerging industries like esports in global mega-events. Analyze the impact of such strategies on digital economies, international branding, and soft power diplomacy.

14.Important International Days – June 18

1. International Day for Countering Hate Speech

• Significance: Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, this day aims to foster global solidarity and promote actions to combat hate speech. It emphasizes the need for dialogue, tolerance, and respect for diversity to prevent the spread of hateful narratives online and offline.
• Purpose: To raise awareness about the dangers of hate speech, encourage governments and individuals to counter it through education, and uphold human rights.

2. Sustainable Gastronomy Day

• Significance: Recognized by the United Nations, Sustainable Gastronomy Day highlights the role of gastronomy (the art of choosing, cooking, and eating good food) in sustainable development. It promotes local and seasonal ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and sustainable practices throughout the food chain.
• Purpose: To acknowledge gastronomy as a cultural expression linked to the natural and social environment, and to emphasize its contribution to food security, nutrition, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable food production and consumption.

3. World Autistic Pride Day

• Significance: Celebrated annually, this day is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the neurodiversity of autistic individuals. It promotes the idea that autism is a difference, not a deficit, and encourages acceptance, understanding, and respect for autistic people’s unique perspectives and contributions.
• Purpose: To challenge stereotypes, promote self-advocacy within the autistic community, and foster a society that is inclusive and supportive of autistic individuals.

4. International Picnic Day

• Significance: International Picnic Day is an informal observance that encourages people worldwide to enjoy the simple pleasure of an outdoor meal with friends, family, or loved ones. It celebrates community, nature, and shared experiences.
• Purpose: Primarily a day for leisure and social bonding, it reminds people to take a break, enjoy the outdoors, and create lasting memories over a meal.

These observances on June 18th highlight diverse aspects, from combating social issues like hate speech to celebrating cultural practices like sustainable gastronomy and promoting neurodiversity, all while offering a chance to enjoy the simple pleasures of life through a picnic.

UPSC Relevance Summary

Sample Prelims Question

Q: Which of the following are observed on June 18?

1. Sustainable Gastronomy Day
2. International Day for Countering Hate Speech
3. World Autism Awareness Day
4. World Autistic Pride Day

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
A. 1, 2, and 3
B. 1, 2, and 4 

C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above

ANS: B