@CSEWhy Times – Nov 11, 2025
1. Booker Prize: Key Points
What happened
The Booker Prize 2025 winner has been announced. It remains the world’s most prestigious award for a single work of fiction.
Why it matters
The prize influences global literary trends, boosts authors' visibility, and shapes contemporary fiction discourse.
Data point
Founded in 1969; the first winner was P.H. Newby. The category for translated fiction (International Booker) was added in 2005.
Impact
Strengthens global recognition of literary excellence and supports global authorship, including translated works.
2. New fund to protect tropical forests (TFFF): Why it’s being criticised
What happened
Brazil launched the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) at COP30. It aims to raise $125 billion for conserving tropical forests.
Why it matters
The world needs long-term finance to protect tropical forests, which provide carbon storage and biodiversity benefits.
Data point
Brazil pledged $1 billion; Colombia $250 million; Norway $3 billion over 10 years; Portugal €1 million.
Impact
Critics say the fund is too vulnerable to financial market volatility and shifts the legal climate burden away from developed countries.
3. Why access to knowledge is crucial for innovation
What happened
The latest Nobel Prize in Economics highlighted the role of knowledge diffusion in economic growth.
Why it matters
Economic growth depends not just on discovering knowledge but ensuring society can access and apply it.
Data point
Mokyr’s model distinguishes *propositional knowledge* (scientific principles) from *prescriptive knowledge* (how-to techniques).
Impact
Restricted access (due to caste, education inequality, or automation) slows innovation, widens inequality, and reduces economic mobility.
4. Public knowledge on private infrastructure: New tensions
What happened
Recent AI breakthroughs have been built largely on private corporate infrastructure rather than public labs.
Why it matters
Raises concerns about who controls research, who benefits, and how public-interest science can be protected.
Data point
Recent Nobel-related breakthroughs involved scientists working inside Big Tech labs (DeepMind, Google).
Impact
Without guardrails, private control over compute and data may limit transparency, public access, and equitable scientific progress.
Indian Express🗞
1. India-Bhutan story offers lessons for managing asymmetric relationships
(GS2: IR Imp. read)
2. Clean air isn't a privilege, right to life begins with right to breathe
(Covers all 3 GS)
3. Beijing's WAICO push will shape new global order
(AI global governance)
4. What govt's AI guidelines mean for tech regulation?
(AI national governance)
5. How James Watson helped unravel the double helix?
(DNA design & shape, GS3 S&T)
The Hindu 📰
1. Celebrating a sage king, a celebration of India-Bhutan ties
(take a look for pointers)
2. What is the role of a pay commission?
(amidst news of 8th pay com)
Pre & Mains Notes
1. Booker Prize: Key Points
What happened
The Booker Prize 2025 winner has been announced. It remains the world’s most prestigious award for a single work of fiction.
Why it matters
The prize influences global literary trends, boosts authors' visibility, and shapes contemporary fiction discourse.
Data point
Founded in 1969; the first winner was P.H. Newby. The category for translated fiction (International Booker) was added in 2005.
Impact
Strengthens global recognition of literary excellence and supports global authorship, including translated works.
2. New fund to protect tropical forests (TFFF): Why it’s being criticised
What happened
Brazil launched the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) at COP30. It aims to raise $125 billion for conserving tropical forests.
Why it matters
The world needs long-term finance to protect tropical forests, which provide carbon storage and biodiversity benefits.
Data point
Brazil pledged $1 billion; Colombia $250 million; Norway $3 billion over 10 years; Portugal €1 million.
Impact
Critics say the fund is too vulnerable to financial market volatility and shifts the legal climate burden away from developed countries.
3. Why access to knowledge is crucial for innovation
What happened
The latest Nobel Prize in Economics highlighted the role of knowledge diffusion in economic growth.
Why it matters
Economic growth depends not just on discovering knowledge but ensuring society can access and apply it.
Data point
Mokyr’s model distinguishes *propositional knowledge* (scientific principles) from *prescriptive knowledge* (how-to techniques).
Impact
Restricted access (due to caste, education inequality, or automation) slows innovation, widens inequality, and reduces economic mobility.
4. Public knowledge on private infrastructure: New tensions
What happened
Recent AI breakthroughs have been built largely on private corporate infrastructure rather than public labs.
Why it matters
Raises concerns about who controls research, who benefits, and how public-interest science can be protected.
Data point
Recent Nobel-related breakthroughs involved scientists working inside Big Tech labs (DeepMind, Google).
Impact
Without guardrails, private control over compute and data may limit transparency, public access, and equitable scientific progress.
@CSEWhy Newspaper Recos
Indian Express🗞
1. India-Bhutan story offers lessons for managing asymmetric relationships
(GS2: IR Imp. read)
2. Clean air isn't a privilege, right to life begins with right to breathe
(Covers all 3 GS)
3. Beijing's WAICO push will shape new global order
(AI global governance)
4. What govt's AI guidelines mean for tech regulation?
(AI national governance)
5. How James Watson helped unravel the double helix?
(DNA design & shape, GS3 S&T)
The Hindu 📰
1. Celebrating a sage king, a celebration of India-Bhutan ties
(take a look for pointers)
2. What is the role of a pay commission?
(amidst news of 8th pay com)
❤9🏆1
Peak UPSC Aspirant Experience (do check 6th😉)
1. Writing your first answer
2. Attempting first mock
3. Realizing 15 lac ONLY apply but not serious
4. Maintaining fitness with prep
5. Completing notes in sync with syllabus
6. "1 result found" in PDF
1. Writing your first answer
2. Attempting first mock
3. Realizing 15 lac ONLY apply but not serious
4. Maintaining fitness with prep
5. Completing notes in sync with syllabus
6. "1 result found" in PDF
🏆31❤24🥰3
@CSEWhy Times – Nov 12 & 13, 2025
Indian Express🗞
1. From Trump-Xi G2, a message for India - build your own leverage
(Tharoor masterclass)
2. How Music therapy can help improve medical conditions (for awareness)
3. Tokyo Tutorial: countering China's rare earths choke (must read)
The Hindu 📰
1. Can lawyers break client confidentiality? (Law question, Bar council PYQ seen!)
@CSEWhy Newspaper Recos for Nov 13
Indian Express🗞
1. From Trump-Xi G2, a message for India - build your own leverage
(Tharoor masterclass)
2. How Music therapy can help improve medical conditions (for awareness)
3. Tokyo Tutorial: countering China's rare earths choke (must read)
The Hindu 📰
1. Can lawyers break client confidentiality? (Law question, Bar council PYQ seen!)
❤3
Pre & Mains Notes
1) Bihar Elections: How Exit Polls Are Conducted
What Happened?
Exit polls were conducted during the final phase of the Bihar elections. These polls estimate how people voted based on interviews taken as voters exit polling stations.
Why It Matters?
Exit polls influence public perception before results and help understand voter behaviour, turnout patterns, and election trends.
Data Point
Exit polls in India date back to 1957. Agencies are mandated by the ECI to release poll results only after voting in all phases is complete.
Impact
Exit polls are not always accurate. Smaller, more representative samples often outperform larger random samples.
2) What’s at Stake in Iraqi Parliamentary Polls?
What Happened?
Iraq held parliamentary elections with 329 seats at stake and unusually low voter enthusiasm.
Why It Matters?
The election is crucial for Iraq’s political stability, economic recovery, and managing U.S.-Iran tensions. The next government must also deal with Iran-backed militias.
Impact
The elected parliament will pick a president and prime minister, shaping Iraq’s governance for years.
3) Discord Between Supreme Court & Centre over Tribunals
What Happened?
The Supreme Court heard petitions challenging the Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021, triggering sharp exchanges with the Centre.
Why It Matters?
Tribunals impact judicial independence. The Centre’s move to reintroduce provisions struck down earlier has raised constitutional concerns.
Impact
Long delays and vacancies make tribunals “virtually defunct”, affecting dispute resolution efficiency.
4) Why Do Astronauts Wear Pressurised Suits?
Why It Matters?
Without atmospheric pressure, bodily fluids can boil, lungs can expand dangerously, and death can occur in minutes.
Data Point
Gaganyaan astronauts will use Russia’s Sokol KV2 suit, used in over 128 Soyuz missions.
Impact
Pressurised suits ensure survival during rapid decompression, fire, extreme heat, or cabin pressure failure.
5) What Do Forensic Experts Do After Blasts?
What Happened?
Forensic teams examined a major explosion near Delhi’s Red Fort, collecting samples within 30 minutes.
Why It Matters?
Blast forensics help determine cause: accident or intentional attack; using evidence analysis, heat patterns, chemical traces, and device remnants.
Data Point
Experts use tests like laser-based scene mapping, flashpoint testing, DNA tests, and thermo-chemical examination.
Impact
Multiple forensic divisions must collaborate to identify the attacker, reconstruct events, and present evidence in court.
6) Why India’s Road Safety System Keeps Failing
What Happened?
Supreme Court took note of two mass-casualty crashes (Rajasthan & Telangana), highlighting systemic failures.
Why It Matters?
- India has one of the world’s highest road fatalities — 1.7 lakh+ deaths in 2023.
- Many states have no structured training, weak enforcement, poor road engineering, and no trauma response systems.
Impact
Crash deaths remain high because survival depends on post-crash care, not just prevention.
7) Tuberculosis Incidence Falling in India: WHO Report
What Happened?
India saw a 21% annual decline in TB incidence from 2015–2024, one of the best global performances.
Why It Matters?
India accounts for a major share of global TB cases; rapid decline is crucial for global elimination goals.
Data Point
* TB incidence: 237 → 187 per lakh
* Treatment coverage: 53% → 92%
* Missing cases: 15 lakh → <1 lakh
* TB mortality: 28 → 21 per lakh
Impact
India’s TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan has screened 19 crore people, detecting 24.5 lakh TB cases, accelerating elimination.
❤17🕊1
If you are struggling with ANY stage of your prep and need genuine help, drop me an email with your issues. Be as specific as you want to be! Don't struggle alone, I got your back
(Email: whycse[at]gmail[dot]com)
(Email: whycse[at]gmail[dot]com)
❤23🤯4
Tamil Nadu govt. to give 50k to UPSC aspirants of state who qualify for the interview! Which other states have such schemes?
❤18
@CSEWhy Times – Nov 14, 2025
1. Solar Storms & Auroras
What happened
* Solar storms caused auroras to appear unusually far south in the Northern Hemisphere.
* Auroras occur when charged solar particles interact with Earth’s atmosphere.
Why now
* Sun is in the peak phase of its 11-year activity cycle.
* Multiple recent coronal mass ejections increased geomagnetic activity.
Effects
* Mostly visual phenomenon, but strong storms can disrupt power grids, satellites, radio and air traffic control.
* Historic example: 1859 Carrington Event caused telegraph fires.
2. US Stops Minting Pennies
What happened
* US Mint produced its last batch of pennies after 232 years.
* Production ended due to rising minting costs and reduced utility.
Why discontinue
* Cost of minting (3.69 cents) exceeds value (1 cent).
* Digital payments and inflation reduced demand.
What next
* About 250 billion pennies remain in circulation.
* Existing pennies continue as legal tender.
3. Ricin Toxin Alleged Terror Plot
Case details
* Gujarat ATS arrested three men accused of trying to produce ricin.
* They allegedly planned attacks and surveyed multiple sites.
About Ricin
* Derived from castor seeds.
* Highly potent; 1 mg can be lethal.
* Prevents protein synthesis in cells, causing multi-organ failure.
Challenges
* Hard to detect early due to delayed symptoms.
* No antidote; treatment is only supportive.
Weaponisation history
* Considered in World War attempts but difficult to stabilise.
* Used in 1978 in the killing of Bulgarian writer Georgi Markov.
4. Tamil Nadu’s Transgender Healthcare Reforms
Why important
* Transgender persons face discrimination, lack of trained providers, and exclusion from public health schemes.
TN’s initiatives
* Gender-affirming surgeries available since 2008.
* Transgender Welfare Board (2008) and Protection of Rights Act services.
* Training of Gender Guidance Clinics.
* Inclusion of transgender care under public insurance (CMCHIS-PMJAY).
* Removal of income cap for insurance; simplification of documents.
Impact
* Over 5,200 individuals enrolled under schemes.
* More than 600 gender-affirming surgeries funded.
Remaining challenges
* Need for comprehensive primary-to-tertiary care.
* Better grievance systems and mental health services.
* Need for accountable, trained facilities.
5. Draft Seeds Bill, 2025
Key provisions
* Replaces Seeds Act, 1966 and Seeds Control Order, 1983.
* Regulates quality of seeds and planting materials.
* Ensures access to high-quality seeds at affordable prices.
Enforcement
* Minor violations decriminalised.
* Strong penalties retained for serious offences.
* Seed dealers required to register with State government.
Concerns
* Farmer unions fear bill favours private seed companies.
* Demands for wider consultation.
Industry view
* Seen as modernization of seed regulation.
6. Hepatitis A and UIP Inclusion
Why reconsider Hepatitis A
* Growing outbreaks in multiple States.
* Fewer children exposed early; immunity gaps increasing.
* Acute liver failure in adults rising.
Vaccine availability
* Safe, long-lasting indigenous vaccines exist.
* Protection lasts 15–20 years; often lifelong.
Epidemiology
* Hepatitis A now affects older groups who face more severe disease.
* Outbreaks linked to sanitation lapses and antibody decline.
Why inclusion makes sense
* High disease burden.
* Cost-effective control compared to other diseases.
* Existing infrastructure allows easy rollout.
* Aligns with UIP’s evidence-based phased expansion.
Indian Express🗞
1. US govt shutdown & state of its budget (must read)
2. Why Trump criticized Nigeria over its 'Christian genocide'
(read for awareness)
The Hindu 📰
1. How is SEC ensuring fair elections? (GS2 Election Commission)
Pre & Mains Notes
1. Solar Storms & Auroras
What happened
* Solar storms caused auroras to appear unusually far south in the Northern Hemisphere.
* Auroras occur when charged solar particles interact with Earth’s atmosphere.
Why now
* Sun is in the peak phase of its 11-year activity cycle.
* Multiple recent coronal mass ejections increased geomagnetic activity.
Effects
* Mostly visual phenomenon, but strong storms can disrupt power grids, satellites, radio and air traffic control.
* Historic example: 1859 Carrington Event caused telegraph fires.
2. US Stops Minting Pennies
What happened
* US Mint produced its last batch of pennies after 232 years.
* Production ended due to rising minting costs and reduced utility.
Why discontinue
* Cost of minting (3.69 cents) exceeds value (1 cent).
* Digital payments and inflation reduced demand.
What next
* About 250 billion pennies remain in circulation.
* Existing pennies continue as legal tender.
3. Ricin Toxin Alleged Terror Plot
Case details
* Gujarat ATS arrested three men accused of trying to produce ricin.
* They allegedly planned attacks and surveyed multiple sites.
About Ricin
* Derived from castor seeds.
* Highly potent; 1 mg can be lethal.
* Prevents protein synthesis in cells, causing multi-organ failure.
Challenges
* Hard to detect early due to delayed symptoms.
* No antidote; treatment is only supportive.
Weaponisation history
* Considered in World War attempts but difficult to stabilise.
* Used in 1978 in the killing of Bulgarian writer Georgi Markov.
4. Tamil Nadu’s Transgender Healthcare Reforms
Why important
* Transgender persons face discrimination, lack of trained providers, and exclusion from public health schemes.
TN’s initiatives
* Gender-affirming surgeries available since 2008.
* Transgender Welfare Board (2008) and Protection of Rights Act services.
* Training of Gender Guidance Clinics.
* Inclusion of transgender care under public insurance (CMCHIS-PMJAY).
* Removal of income cap for insurance; simplification of documents.
Impact
* Over 5,200 individuals enrolled under schemes.
* More than 600 gender-affirming surgeries funded.
Remaining challenges
* Need for comprehensive primary-to-tertiary care.
* Better grievance systems and mental health services.
* Need for accountable, trained facilities.
5. Draft Seeds Bill, 2025
Key provisions
* Replaces Seeds Act, 1966 and Seeds Control Order, 1983.
* Regulates quality of seeds and planting materials.
* Ensures access to high-quality seeds at affordable prices.
Enforcement
* Minor violations decriminalised.
* Strong penalties retained for serious offences.
* Seed dealers required to register with State government.
Concerns
* Farmer unions fear bill favours private seed companies.
* Demands for wider consultation.
Industry view
* Seen as modernization of seed regulation.
6. Hepatitis A and UIP Inclusion
Why reconsider Hepatitis A
* Growing outbreaks in multiple States.
* Fewer children exposed early; immunity gaps increasing.
* Acute liver failure in adults rising.
Vaccine availability
* Safe, long-lasting indigenous vaccines exist.
* Protection lasts 15–20 years; often lifelong.
Epidemiology
* Hepatitis A now affects older groups who face more severe disease.
* Outbreaks linked to sanitation lapses and antibody decline.
Why inclusion makes sense
* High disease burden.
* Cost-effective control compared to other diseases.
* Existing infrastructure allows easy rollout.
* Aligns with UIP’s evidence-based phased expansion.
@CSEWhy Newspaper Recos
Indian Express🗞
1. US govt shutdown & state of its budget (must read)
2. Why Trump criticized Nigeria over its 'Christian genocide'
(read for awareness)
The Hindu 📰
1. How is SEC ensuring fair elections? (GS2 Election Commission)
❤15
UPSC CSE Why
If you are struggling with ANY stage of your prep and need genuine help, drop me an email with your issues. Be as specific as you want to be! Don't struggle alone, I got your back (Email: whycse[at]gmail[dot]com)
Oh wow! 103 aspirants dropped emails from this message. Just finished replying to all the emails.
Always happy to interact and help you with your queries. You can drop an email here to share or learn about ANY of your problems related to UPSC prep or personal life.
Wishing best,
@CSEWhy
Always happy to interact and help you with your queries. You can drop an email here to share or learn about ANY of your problems related to UPSC prep or personal life.
Wishing best,
@CSEWhy
❤11
Explosion at Nowgam Police Station in J&K. This is same PS which is at core of investigating terror situation.
Developing story! Be vigilant and avoid spreading any news without verification
Developing story! Be vigilant and avoid spreading any news without verification
🫡8🦄3❤1💯1
@CSEWhy Times – Nov 15, 2025
1. $300 mn committed for health impacts of climate at COP30
What is the initiative?
* Launch of the Belém Action Plan for Health and Climate Adaptation at COP30 in Belém, Brazil.
* Aims to strengthen global health systems to deal with health impacts of climate change.
Key funding
* $300 million committed by ~35 philanthropies under the Climate and Health Funders Coalition.
* Funding to support both climate-change causes and health consequences.
Why is this important?
* Climate change increasing deaths from heat, storms, wildfires, and pollution.
* Health systems already strained due to workforce shortages and financial pressures.
Findings of 2025 Lancet Countdown
* Climate-linked deaths in the millions; elderly and children hit hardest.
* Developing countries face a major health adaptation finance gap.
* Extreme weather (storms, drought, flooding) worsening rapidly.
Latest Adaptation Gap Report
* Developing-country climate adaptation needs: $310–365 billion per year by 2035.
* Current international flows only $40 billion, far below required levels.
India-specific updates
* India needs $643 billion (2020–2030) for climate adaptation under business-as-usual trajectory.
* India spent $146 billion in 2021–22; climate expenditure increased to 5.6% of GDP (from 3.7% in 2015–16).
Indian Express🗞
1. Delhi blast should alert us to threat of tech-savvy terror
(6 pointer overlook by Sh. Prakash Singh)
The Hindu 📰
No recos today; full of Bihar elections.
Pre & Mains Notes
1. $300 mn committed for health impacts of climate at COP30
What is the initiative?
* Launch of the Belém Action Plan for Health and Climate Adaptation at COP30 in Belém, Brazil.
* Aims to strengthen global health systems to deal with health impacts of climate change.
Key funding
* $300 million committed by ~35 philanthropies under the Climate and Health Funders Coalition.
* Funding to support both climate-change causes and health consequences.
Why is this important?
* Climate change increasing deaths from heat, storms, wildfires, and pollution.
* Health systems already strained due to workforce shortages and financial pressures.
Findings of 2025 Lancet Countdown
* Climate-linked deaths in the millions; elderly and children hit hardest.
* Developing countries face a major health adaptation finance gap.
* Extreme weather (storms, drought, flooding) worsening rapidly.
Latest Adaptation Gap Report
* Developing-country climate adaptation needs: $310–365 billion per year by 2035.
* Current international flows only $40 billion, far below required levels.
India-specific updates
* India needs $643 billion (2020–2030) for climate adaptation under business-as-usual trajectory.
* India spent $146 billion in 2021–22; climate expenditure increased to 5.6% of GDP (from 3.7% in 2015–16).
@CSEWhy Newspaper Recos
Indian Express🗞
1. Delhi blast should alert us to threat of tech-savvy terror
(6 pointer overlook by Sh. Prakash Singh)
The Hindu 📰
No recos today; full of Bihar elections.
❤5
@CSEWhy Times – Nov 17, 2025
Indian Express🗞
1. Crypto investigation (pg 1 & 9)
2. Deeper trade ties will help internationalize the rupee
(read carefully to understand what author is conveying & its impact)
3. High levels of LDLs now common in 20s
(Read for health pov)
4. Entire explained page (5 articles total)
The Hindu 📰
1. What are Digital Personal Data Protection Rules?
(take a note!)
2. How is the global precision medicine market shaping up?
(rare article, don't miss this)
@CSEWhy Newspaper Recos
Indian Express🗞
1. Crypto investigation (pg 1 & 9)
2. Deeper trade ties will help internationalize the rupee
(read carefully to understand what author is conveying & its impact)
3. High levels of LDLs now common in 20s
(Read for health pov)
4. Entire explained page (5 articles total)
The Hindu 📰
1. What are Digital Personal Data Protection Rules?
(take a note!)
2. How is the global precision medicine market shaping up?
(rare article, don't miss this)
❤6🔥1💋1
@CSEWhy Times – Nov 18, 2025
1. ICT Tribunal & Hasina Verdict
What happened?
• Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina convicted *in absentia* by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for “crimes against humanity”; sentenced to death.
• ICT was formed in 2009 by Hasina herself to try 1971 war criminals.
Issues Raised:
• Critics say ICT was used politically against Hasina’s opponents.
• Human Rights Watch called the trials flawed and lacking judicial independence.
Current Context:
• After Hasina’s ouster in 2023, ICT revived cases *against her*, alleging murder, genocide, torture.
• Marks reversal of earlier stance, intensifying Bangladesh’s political instability.
2. Sentinel-6B Satellite Launched
About the mission:
• Launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base (U.S.).
• Ocean-tracking satellite to study sea levels, temperatures, currents.
Key Functions:
• Measures sea-level rise: critical for climate predictions.
• Aids in weather forecasting, storm predictions, coastal protection.
Partnership:
• Joint mission of NASA, NOAA, EU Space Agency.
• Complements Sentinel-6A (operational since 2020).
3. Ambaji Marble Gets GI Tag
About Ambaji Marble:
• Sourced from Banaskantha district, Gujarat; known for pure white colour, high shine, and durability.
• Used historically in temples, monuments (including Taj Mahal-type structures).
Significance:
• Exported globally (U.S., UK, NZ, etc.).
• Marble mines estimated to be 1,200–1,500 years old.
GI Tag Benefits:
• Protects from imitation; valid 10 years.
• Enhances branding, authenticates origin, supports local artisans.
• Regulated by DPIIT.
4. Strait of Hormuz – Why in News
Trigger:
• Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker passing through the strait.
Importance of the Strait:
• Narrow chokepoint (35–95 km wide) between Iran and Arabian Peninsula.
• Carries ~20% of world’s oil supply and major LNG shipments.
India’s Stake:
• 40% of India’s crude imports and >50% LNG pass through this route.
Geopolitical Sensitivity:
• Region prone to blockades, tanker attacks (2019), U.S.–Iran tensions.
• Disruption can spike global oil prices.
5. Mahe – Indigenous Anti-Submarine Vessel
About the vessel:
• First in Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft.
• Built by Cochin Shipyard under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Key Features:
• >80% indigenous components.
• High-speed littoral operations: submarine hunting, coastal patrol.
• Stealth + mobility + precision.
• Crest features *Urumi* sword symbolising agility and strength.
Significance:
• Strengthens India’s coastal defence and ASW capabilities.
6. How Global Precision Medicine Market is Shaping Up
What is precision biotherapeutics?
• Medical interventions customised to patient’s genetic, molecular, or cellular profile.
Why India needs it:
• NCDs like diabetes, heart disease form 65% of deaths.
• Large genetic diversity and population scale make India a key market.
Current Status in India:
• DoB identified precision biotech as priority sector.
• Major institutions: IGIB, NIBMG, THSTI.
• Indian firms producing biosimilars and monoclonal antibodies.
Challenges:
• High costs, limited regulations, privacy concerns.
• Lack of local manufacturing capacity for advanced therapies.
Opportunities:
• Global market projected to exceed USD 22 billion by 2027.
• India's genomic initiatives (IndiGen, GenomeIndia) can support personalised treatments.
Indian Express🗞
1. How China dealt with Air pollution, lessons for India
(read with great attention to detail)
2. Why Rhesus monkeys need legal protection?
(GS3: Environment species)
The Hindu 📰
1. India needs to ‘connect, build and revive with Africa
(loved a piece after long!)
2. The trajectory of anti-rape laws in India
(imp. take a note)
PS: Are you on my blog? link: blog.csewhy.com
Pre & Mains Notes
1. ICT Tribunal & Hasina Verdict
What happened?
• Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina convicted *in absentia* by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for “crimes against humanity”; sentenced to death.
• ICT was formed in 2009 by Hasina herself to try 1971 war criminals.
Issues Raised:
• Critics say ICT was used politically against Hasina’s opponents.
• Human Rights Watch called the trials flawed and lacking judicial independence.
Current Context:
• After Hasina’s ouster in 2023, ICT revived cases *against her*, alleging murder, genocide, torture.
• Marks reversal of earlier stance, intensifying Bangladesh’s political instability.
2. Sentinel-6B Satellite Launched
About the mission:
• Launched from Vandenberg Space Force Base (U.S.).
• Ocean-tracking satellite to study sea levels, temperatures, currents.
Key Functions:
• Measures sea-level rise: critical for climate predictions.
• Aids in weather forecasting, storm predictions, coastal protection.
Partnership:
• Joint mission of NASA, NOAA, EU Space Agency.
• Complements Sentinel-6A (operational since 2020).
3. Ambaji Marble Gets GI Tag
About Ambaji Marble:
• Sourced from Banaskantha district, Gujarat; known for pure white colour, high shine, and durability.
• Used historically in temples, monuments (including Taj Mahal-type structures).
Significance:
• Exported globally (U.S., UK, NZ, etc.).
• Marble mines estimated to be 1,200–1,500 years old.
GI Tag Benefits:
• Protects from imitation; valid 10 years.
• Enhances branding, authenticates origin, supports local artisans.
• Regulated by DPIIT.
4. Strait of Hormuz – Why in News
Trigger:
• Iran seized a Marshall Islands-flagged oil tanker passing through the strait.
Importance of the Strait:
• Narrow chokepoint (35–95 km wide) between Iran and Arabian Peninsula.
• Carries ~20% of world’s oil supply and major LNG shipments.
India’s Stake:
• 40% of India’s crude imports and >50% LNG pass through this route.
Geopolitical Sensitivity:
• Region prone to blockades, tanker attacks (2019), U.S.–Iran tensions.
• Disruption can spike global oil prices.
5. Mahe – Indigenous Anti-Submarine Vessel
About the vessel:
• First in Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft.
• Built by Cochin Shipyard under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
Key Features:
• >80% indigenous components.
• High-speed littoral operations: submarine hunting, coastal patrol.
• Stealth + mobility + precision.
• Crest features *Urumi* sword symbolising agility and strength.
Significance:
• Strengthens India’s coastal defence and ASW capabilities.
6. How Global Precision Medicine Market is Shaping Up
What is precision biotherapeutics?
• Medical interventions customised to patient’s genetic, molecular, or cellular profile.
Why India needs it:
• NCDs like diabetes, heart disease form 65% of deaths.
• Large genetic diversity and population scale make India a key market.
Current Status in India:
• DoB identified precision biotech as priority sector.
• Major institutions: IGIB, NIBMG, THSTI.
• Indian firms producing biosimilars and monoclonal antibodies.
Challenges:
• High costs, limited regulations, privacy concerns.
• Lack of local manufacturing capacity for advanced therapies.
Opportunities:
• Global market projected to exceed USD 22 billion by 2027.
• India's genomic initiatives (IndiGen, GenomeIndia) can support personalised treatments.
@CSEWhy Newspaper Recos
Indian Express🗞
1. How China dealt with Air pollution, lessons for India
(read with great attention to detail)
2. Why Rhesus monkeys need legal protection?
(GS3: Environment species)
The Hindu 📰
1. India needs to ‘connect, build and revive with Africa
(loved a piece after long!)
2. The trajectory of anti-rape laws in India
(imp. take a note)
PS: Are you on my blog? link: blog.csewhy.com
❤10🔥1
Forwarded from CSEPlanB | UPSC
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Friends, this is one of the unique opportunities to curate content that will reach 10mn+ people every month
About the Role
A female Video Content Creator to drive faster user growth on the app. This is a full-time, Delhi-only role
About Aspirant Adda
Aspirant Adda is India's 1st UPSC Social App connecting aspirants Peer to Peer. (Checkout app here)
With 50k+ UPSC users, we are onto onboarding 1crore+ Indian aspirants of competitive & entrance exams on the app in next 18-24 months.
Click here to find more details & apply right away!
Any query? Reply below!
😁4💋4❤2🦄1
@CSEWhy Times – Nov 19, 2025
1. ‘Parasocial’: Cambridge Word of the Year
The story so far:
* Cambridge Dictionary selected “parasocial” as the 2025 Word of the Year due to rising AI companionship trends.
* Definition updated to include “possibility of a relationship with AI.”
Key points:
1. Term coined in 1956 by sociologists Horton & Wohl for one-sided spectator–performer relationships.
2. Now includes relationships with celebrities, influencers, AI bots, and digital characters.
3. Social media deepens illusion that fans “know” the celebrity closely.
4. Parasocial ties aren’t harmful by default; issues arise when they replace real interactions.
5. AI companions and chatbots turning from novelty to social necessity is the new concern.
6. Reflects a global shift towards loneliness + digital substitutes for connection.
2. Ginkgo-toothed Beaked Whale Spotted
The story so far:
* Scientists recorded the rare ginkgo-toothed beaked whale (Mesoplodon ginkgodens) in the wild near Baja California, Mexico.
Key points:
1. Part of 24 species of beaked whales—2nd most diverse cetacean group after dolphins.
2. Known from very limited stranding records; rarely observed alive.
3. Grows up to 17.3 ft; both sexes look similar.
4. Has a robust, heavily scarred body**—indicating low aggression among males.
5. Beaked whales are the **deepest-diving mammals, surfacing only briefly.
6. Extremely shy & easily frightened, especially when approached by boats.
3. ‘Agentic AI’: Tech’s New Buzzword
The story so far:
* “Agentic AI” is the industry’s newest pitch, claiming systems that can plan, act, and learn autonomously.
Key points:
1. Goes beyond chatbots—meant to behave like autonomous teammates performing multi-step tasks.
2. MIT & Boston Consulting Group report defines it as a new class of systems.
3. Tech giants (Amazon, Google, IBM) expect agents to manage tasks like shopping, bookings, scheduling.
4. Promise: break down high-level goals into steps and act on them.
5. Concern: marketing hype often exceeds actual capability; AI agents still depend on user-set preferences.
6. Researchers caution that “agentic” is being used loosely; concept has existed in academia for decades.
4. Amendments Planned for Plant Variety Act (PPV&FRA)
The story so far:
* Centre plans amendments to PPV&FRA Act; stakeholder consultations underway.
Key points:
1. Proposed changes to definition of “variety needs” & “combination of genotypes”; aligning with draft Seeds Bill 2019.
2. Discussions include revising definition of “breeder” to include public/private sector institutions.
3. Importance of trait testing under DUS guidelines is being stressed.
4. Concerns: misuse of DUS tests for registering community-developed seeds under private names.
5. Farmers fear monopolisation of seeds & loss of community control.
6. Groups demand mandatory registration of all community-developed seeds to protect collective rights.
Indian Express🗞
1. Between US & Saudi Arabia, Israel is the elephant in the room
(Raja Mandal is IR key!)
2. What are threats to India Sea Cows?
(Imp. Article, 2-3 PYQs on this)
3. How base effect, bullion prices shaped CPI inflation?
(GS3 Economy: Imp. conceptual read)
The Hindu 📰
1. Time to sort out India’s cereal mess (read for awareness)
2. What can local bodies expect from the 16th FC? (basic awareness)
Pre & Mains Notes
1. ‘Parasocial’: Cambridge Word of the Year
The story so far:
* Cambridge Dictionary selected “parasocial” as the 2025 Word of the Year due to rising AI companionship trends.
* Definition updated to include “possibility of a relationship with AI.”
Key points:
1. Term coined in 1956 by sociologists Horton & Wohl for one-sided spectator–performer relationships.
2. Now includes relationships with celebrities, influencers, AI bots, and digital characters.
3. Social media deepens illusion that fans “know” the celebrity closely.
4. Parasocial ties aren’t harmful by default; issues arise when they replace real interactions.
5. AI companions and chatbots turning from novelty to social necessity is the new concern.
6. Reflects a global shift towards loneliness + digital substitutes for connection.
2. Ginkgo-toothed Beaked Whale Spotted
The story so far:
* Scientists recorded the rare ginkgo-toothed beaked whale (Mesoplodon ginkgodens) in the wild near Baja California, Mexico.
Key points:
1. Part of 24 species of beaked whales—2nd most diverse cetacean group after dolphins.
2. Known from very limited stranding records; rarely observed alive.
3. Grows up to 17.3 ft; both sexes look similar.
4. Has a robust, heavily scarred body**—indicating low aggression among males.
5. Beaked whales are the **deepest-diving mammals, surfacing only briefly.
6. Extremely shy & easily frightened, especially when approached by boats.
3. ‘Agentic AI’: Tech’s New Buzzword
The story so far:
* “Agentic AI” is the industry’s newest pitch, claiming systems that can plan, act, and learn autonomously.
Key points:
1. Goes beyond chatbots—meant to behave like autonomous teammates performing multi-step tasks.
2. MIT & Boston Consulting Group report defines it as a new class of systems.
3. Tech giants (Amazon, Google, IBM) expect agents to manage tasks like shopping, bookings, scheduling.
4. Promise: break down high-level goals into steps and act on them.
5. Concern: marketing hype often exceeds actual capability; AI agents still depend on user-set preferences.
6. Researchers caution that “agentic” is being used loosely; concept has existed in academia for decades.
4. Amendments Planned for Plant Variety Act (PPV&FRA)
The story so far:
* Centre plans amendments to PPV&FRA Act; stakeholder consultations underway.
Key points:
1. Proposed changes to definition of “variety needs” & “combination of genotypes”; aligning with draft Seeds Bill 2019.
2. Discussions include revising definition of “breeder” to include public/private sector institutions.
3. Importance of trait testing under DUS guidelines is being stressed.
4. Concerns: misuse of DUS tests for registering community-developed seeds under private names.
5. Farmers fear monopolisation of seeds & loss of community control.
6. Groups demand mandatory registration of all community-developed seeds to protect collective rights.
@CSEWhy Newspaper Recos
Indian Express🗞
1. Between US & Saudi Arabia, Israel is the elephant in the room
(Raja Mandal is IR key!)
2. What are threats to India Sea Cows?
(Imp. Article, 2-3 PYQs on this)
3. How base effect, bullion prices shaped CPI inflation?
(GS3 Economy: Imp. conceptual read)
The Hindu 📰
1. Time to sort out India’s cereal mess (read for awareness)
2. What can local bodies expect from the 16th FC? (basic awareness)
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