GK One-Liners

What: India is set to launch its first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind–Sonipat route in Haryana. The train will use green hydrogen as fuel, offering a zero-emission alternative to diesel locomotives on non-electrified railway tracks.

How: Hydrogen fuel cell trains work by combining hydrogen with oxygen in a fuel cell to produce electricity, which powers the train’s motors. The only byproduct is water, making it an environmentally clean technology ideal for routes where overhead electrification is not feasible.

Why: This aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and decarbonisation goals. Questions on green hydrogen, alternative fuels in transport, and India’s climate commitments are frequently asked in UPSC Environment and Science & Technology sections.

What: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed capping dividend payouts by banks at 75% of their distributable profits. This regulatory measure aims to strengthen banks’ capital buffers and reduce systemic risk in the financial system.

How: By limiting dividends, banks are compelled to retain a larger share of profits as internal reserves. This retained capital acts as a cushion against loan defaults and economic downturns, ensuring long-term stability and reducing the need for external capital infusion.

Why: Banking regulation and capital adequacy are core topics for banking exams (IBPS, SBI PO) and UPSC Prelims. Understanding RBI’s prudential norms, Basel III requirements, and financial stability measures is essential for economy-related questions.

What: The Indian Air Force (IAF) marked 25 years since the maiden flight of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) on 4 January 2001. Tejas is India’s indigenous single-engine, multi-role fighter jet developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

How: The Tejas programme exemplifies India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The aircraft incorporates indigenous fly-by-wire controls, composite materials, and radar systems, with ongoing upgrades for the Mark 2 variant.

Why: Defence indigenisation and Make in India in defence are recurring UPSC themes. Questions on HAL, ADA, LCA variants, and India’s fighter aircraft programmes appear regularly in Prelims and are valuable for Mains GS-III (Security).

What: Financial Software and Systems (FSS), a leading payments technology company, has become the first payments firm across multiple regions to receive ISO/IEC 42001 certification. This is the world’s first international standard for Artificial Intelligence Management Systems (AIMS).

How: ISO/IEC 42001 provides a framework for organisations to establish, implement, and continually improve AI governance practices. It covers responsible AI development, risk management, transparency, and accountability in AI-driven operations within the payments ecosystem.

Why: AI governance and ethical AI frameworks are emerging topics in competitive exams. With India’s Digital India and fintech push, understanding AI standards and responsible AI usage is valuable for UPSC Science & Tech and banking exam preparation.

What: The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) has removed the mandatory 3-year existence requirement for startups seeking DSIR recognition. This policy change enables early-stage deep-tech startups to access government support and benefits sooner.

How: Previously, startups needed to be operational for at least 3 years to qualify for DSIR recognition, which unlocks benefits like R&D tax incentives, import duty exemptions, and access to government grants. The relaxation removes this barrier for innovative deep-tech ventures working on cutting-edge technologies.

Why: Startup ecosystem reforms and Science & Technology policy changes are important for UPSC GS-III. Understanding DSIR’s role, deep-tech sectors (AI, quantum, biotech), and government support mechanisms for innovation helps in answering economy and S&T questions.

What: AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy) has been formally recognised in bilateral trade agreements with Oman and New Zealand. These pacts cover herbal products and wellness services, contributing to a 6.11% rise in AYUSH exports to USD 688.89 million in 2024–25.

How: Inclusion in trade pacts provides formal market access, reduces tariff barriers, and establishes quality standards for Indian traditional medicine exports. This diplomatic-economic approach promotes AYUSH globally while creating export opportunities for Indian manufacturers and practitioners.

Why: Healthcare exports, traditional medicine diplomacy, and bilateral trade agreements are relevant for UPSC Economy and International Relations sections. AYUSH’s global expansion also links to soft power and India’s cultural diplomacy initiatives.