GK One-Liners

What: India has reached a milestone of 250 gigawatts (GW) of non-fossil fuel power capacity, marking significant progress toward its ambitious target of 500 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030. This achievement encompasses solar, wind, hydroelectric, nuclear, and other clean energy sources, demonstrating India’s commitment to energy transition and climate action under the Paris Agreement and its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

How: The milestone was achieved through massive deployment of solar photovoltaic installations under schemes like PM-KUSUM and rooftop solar programs, expansion of wind energy projects in states like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan, development of hydroelectric projects in Himalayan states, and growth in nuclear power capacity. Government initiatives like Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for solar manufacturing, Green Energy Corridors for transmission infrastructure, and policy support through National Solar Mission and National Wind-Solar Hybrid Policy have accelerated renewable energy adoption. Private sector participation, falling renewable energy costs, and international climate finance have also contributed significantly.

Why: This is crucial for UPSC GS3 (Environment, Energy Security, Economy). It connects to India’s climate commitments at COP summits, renewable energy policy framework, energy transition challenges, sustainable development goals (SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, SDG 13 – Climate Action), and reducing fossil fuel dependency. Questions on renewable energy targets, climate change mitigation, energy mix transformation, and India’s NDCs are frequent in both Prelims and Mains. Banking exams also cover green energy financing, climate bonds, and sustainable development initiatives. The achievement strengthens India’s position in international climate negotiations and demonstrates leadership among developing nations.

What: The Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) train ‘Namo Bharat’ has become India’s fastest operational train, reaching speeds of 160 kilometers per hour (km/h). Currently operational on 55 kilometers of the total 82.15-kilometer corridor, the system aims to connect Delhi to Meerut in under one hour with high-frequency services, advanced train control systems, and modern passenger amenities.

How: The RRTS operates on dedicated high-speed rail corridors separate from conventional railway networks, using Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) systems for automated operations and safety. The trains feature aerodynamic design, regenerative braking systems, air-conditioned coaches, dedicated luggage areas, and accessibility features for persons with disabilities. Stations incorporate multimodal connectivity with metro, buses, and other transport modes. The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) is implementing this project with support from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for technical expertise and financing. The system reduces travel time significantly compared to road transport, alleviating traffic congestion in the National Capital Region.

Why: This is important for UPSC GS3 (Infrastructure, Economic Development, Urbanization). It connects to urban transport modernization, regional connectivity, smart cities mission, reducing vehicular pollution, metro rail policy, and public-private partnership models. Questions on high-speed rail projects, RRTS network expansion, sustainable urban mobility, and comparison with global transit systems appear in Mains GS3 and essay papers. Banking exams cover infrastructure development, urban transportation projects, and economic impact of connectivity improvements. The project demonstrates India’s capability in executing modern transit systems and addresses urbanization challenges in megacities.

What: Union Home Minister Amit Shah virtually launched the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) at five additional airports: Lucknow, Thiruvananthapuram, Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), Kozhikode, and Amritsar. The expansion brings total coverage to 13 airports nationwide, enabling eligible frequent travelers to clear immigration in approximately 30 seconds using biometric-enabled automated gates and pre-verified credentials.

How: The FTI-TTP uses biometric authentication (facial recognition, fingerprints, iris scans) combined with pre-enrollment verification to create a trusted traveler database. Eligible travelers include Indian nationals who are frequent international travelers with clean immigration records. The system employs automated e-gates with integrated biometric scanners that verify identity instantly without manual document checking. Immigration authorities conduct background verification during enrollment, and travelers receive a unique identification number linked to their biometric data. The programme reduces queues at immigration counters, enhances airport efficiency, improves passenger experience, and allows immigration officers to focus on high-risk travelers requiring detailed scrutiny.

Why: This is relevant for UPSC GS2 (Governance, E-Governance) and GS3 (Technology Application). It connects to Digital India initiatives, ease of doing business reforms, smart immigration systems, airport modernization under UDAN scheme, and technology adoption in government services. Questions on biometric authentication, data privacy concerns, immigration reforms, and comparing India’s system with global programs like US Global Entry or Singapore’s Frequent Traveller Programme appear in Mains. Banking exams also cover digital governance initiatives and technology-enabled public services. The programme enhances India’s position as a travel-friendly destination and supports tourism sector growth.

What: India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $126.4 million loan agreement to develop climate-resilient and sustainable tourism infrastructure in Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. The project focuses on building environmentally sustainable tourism that benefits local communities while preserving the Himalayan ecosystem. Planned improvements include infrastructure development, sanitation facilities, waste management systems, and disaster preparedness measures for both residents and visitors.

How: The project will develop eco-friendly tourist facilities including nature trails, interpretation centers, and homestay networks that provide livelihood opportunities to local communities. Infrastructure improvements include construction of sewage treatment plants, solid waste management facilities, rainwater harvesting systems, and renewable energy installations in tourist zones. The initiative incorporates disaster risk reduction measures such as early warning systems, evacuation routes, and resilient construction techniques given the region’s vulnerability to landslides, cloudbursts, and earthquakes. Community participation programs will train locals in sustainable tourism practices, heritage conservation, and hospitality management, ensuring equitable benefit distribution.

Why: This is relevant for UPSC GS3 (Economy, Environment, Infrastructure) and GS2 (International Organizations). It connects to sustainable development goals (SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth, SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities, SDG 13 – Climate Action), climate change adaptation in Himalayan regions, ecotourism policy, disaster management in mountain states, and India’s engagement with multilateral development banks. Questions on ADB financing, sustainable tourism models, climate-resilient infrastructure, and balancing development with environmental conservation appear in Mains. Banking exams cover international financial institutions, development financing, and sustainable infrastructure projects. The initiative demonstrates integrated approach to tourism development addressing economic, environmental, and social dimensions.

What: Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace unveiled ‘FWD Kaal Bhairava’, India’s first indigenous Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) autonomous combat aircraft. The drone features extended flight duration, artificial intelligence-led surveillance capabilities, autonomous strike capabilities, and advanced sensor integration. The company reported securing a $30 million export order, marking a significant milestone in India’s defence exports and indigenous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) development.

How: The MALE drone operates at medium altitudes (typically 10,000-30,000 feet) with endurance exceeding 24 hours, enabling persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. It incorporates AI-powered target identification and tracking systems, autonomous navigation capabilities, and can carry precision-guided munitions for strike operations. The platform uses indigenous avionics, propulsion systems, and communication links developed under Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. Integration with command and control systems allows real-time data transmission and coordinated operations with manned aircraft and ground forces. The export order demonstrates international confidence in Indian defence manufacturing quality and competitiveness.

Why: This is crucial for UPSC GS3 (Defence, Technology, Economy). It connects to Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence production, defence export policy, unmanned systems in modern warfare, AI applications in military technology, and India’s emergence as defence exporter rather than just importer. Questions on drone technology, MALE UAVs, defence indigenization targets (64% by 2030), Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy, and strategic autonomy appear frequently in Mains. Banking exams cover defence sector reforms and export achievements. The development addresses critical capability gaps identified in border conflicts, reduces dependency on foreign suppliers like Israel and USA for MALE drones, and contributes to India’s goal of becoming among top five defence exporters globally.

What: During Mauritius Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam’s visit to India, the Indian government unveiled a Special Economic Package worth approximately USD 680 million for Mauritius. The comprehensive package combines outright grants, grant-cum-Line of Credit (LoC) projects, and direct budget support to strengthen bilateral economic cooperation. Additionally, both nations committed to deeper coordination in maritime security and regional strategic matters within the Indian Ocean Region.

How: The package includes development assistance for infrastructure projects such as port modernization, renewable energy installations, healthcare facilities, and digital connectivity initiatives in Mauritius. Grant components provide direct financial support without repayment obligations for critical projects. Line of Credit arrangements offer concessional financing for development projects with favorable interest rates and repayment terms. Budget support helps Mauritius manage fiscal requirements and implement economic reforms. The maritime security cooperation involves sharing intelligence, coordinating naval patrols, capacity building for Mauritius Coast Guard, and joint surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones to counter piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime terrorism.

Why: This is important for UPSC GS2 (International Relations, Bilateral Relations). It connects to India’s Neighborhood First policy, Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) doctrine, Indian Ocean diplomacy, countering China’s influence through debt-trap diplomacy, and India’s role as net security provider in the region. Questions on India-Mauritius relations, Indian diaspora connections, Chagos Archipelago dispute, Agalega military facility, and Indian Ocean strategic importance appear in Mains. Banking exams also cover India’s development assistance programs and bilateral economic cooperation. Mauritius serves as a critical partner in India’s Indo-Pacific strategy, provides access to African markets, and supports India’s positions in international forums. The relationship carries historical significance through shared colonial heritage and substantial Indian-origin population in Mauritius.