GK One-Liners

What: Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas) is observed on November 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. The day honours Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s contributions as the chief architect of the Constitution and promotes constitutional values among citizens.

How: The Constituent Assembly, which first met on December 9, 1946, adopted the Constitution on November 26, 1949 after nearly three years of deliberations. The Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, which is celebrated as Republic Day. Constitution Day has been observed since 2015 to promote constitutional awareness.

Why: Constitutional history, Constituent Assembly, and Dr. Ambedkar’s role are fundamental topics for UPSC GS-II (Polity). Understanding the Constitution’s drafting process, key dates, and contributions of Drafting Committee members helps in constitutional framework questions.

What: India announced quantum fabrication centres worth ₹720 crore at IIT Bombay, IISc Bangalore, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Delhi under the National Quantum Mission (NQM). These centres will strengthen India’s quantum technology leadership by developing indigenous quantum computing, communication, and sensing capabilities.

How: The NQM, approved with ₹6,003 crore budget (2023-2031), aims to develop quantum computers with 50-1000 qubits, satellite-based quantum communication over 2000 km, and quantum sensors. Fabrication centres will manufacture quantum devices domestically, reducing import dependence and building a skilled workforce.

Why: National Quantum Mission, emerging technologies, and science infrastructure are important for UPSC GS-III (Science & Tech). Understanding quantum computing applications, NQM objectives, and India’s technology missions helps in science policy questions.

What: Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and France’s Safran formed a 50:50 joint venture to manufacture HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) precision air-to-ground weapons in India. This partnership advances Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.

How: HAMMER is a modular, precision-guided munition that can be launched from aircraft like Rafale jets. The JV will involve technology transfer, local manufacturing, and integration with Indian platforms. BEL brings electronics and systems expertise while Safran contributes guidance and propulsion technology.

Why: Defence JVs, technology transfer, and Make in India are important for UPSC GS-III (Security). Understanding India-France defence cooperation, Strategic Partnership model, and indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem helps in defence procurement questions.

What: India ranked 36th in the Commitment to Development Index (CDI) 2025, published by the Center for Global Development. India’s best performance was in the Environment category (8th globally), while the weakest was in Trade & Development Finance (38th).

How: CDI evaluates countries across seven policy areas: aid, finance, technology, environment, trade, security, and migration. It measures how policies of wealthy countries affect developing nations. India’s strong environmental score reflects renewable energy investments and climate commitments, while trade barriers affect its trade score.

Why: Global indices and rankings are frequently asked in competitive exams. Understanding CDI, Global Innovation Index, Human Development Index, and India’s position across different parameters helps in international relations and general awareness questions.

What: COP30 (30th Conference of Parties to UNFCCC), presided over by André Corrêa do Lago, saw participation from 195+ nations in Belém, Brazil, making it the world’s second-largest climate conference. The Amazon location emphasised forest conservation and indigenous rights in climate action.

How: COP30 built on COP29 (Baku) outcomes, focusing on implementation of climate pledges, new finance targets, and nature-based solutions. Key discussions included scaling up climate finance, operationalising the Loss and Damage Fund, and reviewing progress on Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Why: UNFCCC COPs, climate negotiations, and global environmental governance are important for UPSC GS-III (Environment). Understanding COP history, Paris Agreement implementation, and India’s climate positions helps in environment and international relations questions.

What: Justice Vikram Nath was appointed as the Executive Chairman of NALSA (National Legal Services Authority), succeeding Justice Surya Kant who became the Chief Justice of India. NALSA is the apex body constituted under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987.

How: NALSA, under Section 3 of the Legal Services Authorities Act, provides free legal services to eligible sections including SC/ST, women, children, disabled persons, and economically weaker sections. The CJI is the Patron-in-Chief, while a sitting Supreme Court judge serves as Executive Chairman. NALSA coordinates with State Legal Services Authorities (SLSAs).

Why: Legal services, access to justice, and constitutional bodies are important for UPSC GS-II (Polity). Understanding Article 39A (equal justice and free legal aid), NALSA’s functions, Lok Adalats, and legal aid eligibility helps in governance questions.