UPSC Daily Current Affairs: 2026-02-28

Table of Contents
1. Key Facts about Pangong Lake
2. Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)
3. Indivisible Dignity - Supreme Court's Intervention and the Constitutional Ethic of Respect
4. International Law is Not Dead, Its Rules Stay Resilient
5. Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS)
6. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation
7. Exercise Vayu Shakti-26
8. What is the Amur Falcon?
9. New GDP Series 2022-23 Base Year
10. Nilgiri Wood Pigeon
11. Amondawa Tribe
12. Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions: A Conflict Rooted in History
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GS3/Environment

Key Facts about Pangong Lake

Why in News?

Ladakh has made headlines by successfully organizing its first-ever 21-km trail running event in sub-zero temperatures at an altitude of 13,862 feet at Pangong Tso. This event has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world's highest frozen lake half marathon.

Key Takeaways

• Pangong Lake, known as "Pangong Tso," is an endorheic (hydrologically landlocked) lake located in eastern Ladakh, extending into the China (Tibet region).
• It is one of the world's highest brackish water lakes, situated at an elevation of 4,350 meters.
• The lake is famous for its ability to change colors, displaying shades from blue to red and green.
• During winter, Pangong Lake completely freezes, despite having saline water.
• In summer, it serves as a breeding ground for various bird species, including Bar-headed geese, Brahminy ducks, black-necked cranes, and seagulls.
• The lake is not part of the Indus River basin and is geographically a separate landlocked river basin.
• The area around Pangong Lake is a disputed territory, with the Line of Actual Control (LAC) passing through the lake.

Additional Details

• Pangong Tso: The name derives from the Tibetan language, meaning "high grassland lake."
• The lake is renowned for its stunning views and unique geographical features, making it a popular tourist destination.
• Its ecological significance is highlighted by the diverse avian population that inhabits the region during the warmer months.

Pangong Lake stands out not only for its breathtaking beauty but also for its ecological and geographical importance, making it a key area of interest in Ladakh.

GS3/Science and Technology

Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)

Why in News?

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has partnered with the Satcom Industry Association of India (SIA-India) to issue comprehensive guidelines aimed at enhancing cyber security within India's space sector.

Key Takeaways

• CERT-In is the national nodal agency responsible for responding to computer security incidents since 2004.
• It operates under the Ministry of Information & Electronics Technology, Government of India.
• The agency issues guidelines and coordinates responses to cyber incidents.

Additional Details

• CERT-In's Objectives:To secure Indian cyberspace by performing various functions including:
  • Collection, analysis, and dissemination of information on cyber incidents.
  • Forecasting and alerting about potential cybersecurity incidents.
  • Coordinating emergency measures and responses to cyber incidents.
  • Issuing advisories, guidelines, and white papers on information security practices.
• Empowerment: CERT-In has the authority to request information and issue directives to service providers, intermediaries, data centres, and other entities.
• Collaboration: CERT-In collaborates with international organizations to share information about emerging threats and vulnerabilities.
• Public Awareness: The agency promotes awareness about security issues through its website, which can be accessed at cert-in.org.in.
• Operational Support: CERT-In operates a 24x7 incident response help desk and ensures that the disclosure of information adheres to Indian constitutional laws.
• Governance:A Review Committee oversees CERT-In's operations, comprising representatives from various government ministries, including:
  • Ministry of Law and Justice
  • Department of Telecommunications
  • Ministry of Home Affairs
  • Group Coordinator for Cyber Law and e-Security

Overall, the collaboration between CERT-In and SIA-India marks a significant step towards bolstering the cybersecurity framework in India's growing space ecosystem, ensuring a safer digital environment for all stakeholders involved.

GS2/Polity

Indivisible Dignity - Supreme Court's Intervention and the Constitutional Ethic of Respect

Why in News?

The Supreme Court's recent suo motu intervention regarding a passage in an NCERT textbook, which allegedly depicted judicial corruption, has brought to light the need for protecting the reputation and dignity of public institutions. This action emphasizes that public confidence is vital for constitutional governance.

Key Takeaways

• The Court asserts that institutional credibility relies on public trust, not just legal authority.
• Misrepresentation in educational materials can lead to long-term reputational damage.
• Swift judicial intervention is necessary to maintain institutional legitimacy in a democracy.
• Textbooks play a crucial role in shaping civic consciousness and democratic values.

Additional Details

• Recent Curriculum Changes:The recent NCERT revisions have sparked concerns due to significant omissions, including:
  • Removal of references to the Gujarat riots in Class XII Political Science.
  • Dilution of the Babri Masjid demolition references.
  • Reduced coverage of Mughal history, caste struggles, and Dalit movements.
• Risks of Partial Narratives: Communities often face representation through conflict or victimhood narratives, which can reinforce stereotypes and prejudices.
• Constitutional Doctrine of Dignity: Justice Ujjal Bhuyan emphasized that vilification based on religion, caste, language, or region is constitutionally impermissible.
• Legal Provisions: Key legal safeguards include IPC Sections addressing hate speech and vilification, although enforcement is often inconsistent.

In conclusion, the Supreme Court's intervention regarding NCERT content transcends the protection of judicial reputation; it underscores a broader constitutional principle that dignity is indivisible. A robust democracy must equally defend both institutions and communities, ensuring that every citizen enjoys the respect they deserve.

GS2/International Relations

International Law is Not Dead, Its Rules Stay Resilient

Why in News?

The resurgence of geopolitical tensions, notably Russia's invasion of Ukraine and conflicts in West Asia, has spurred claims regarding the decline of international law. Observers are noting a potential shift towards a norm-free world, highlighted by unilateral military actions and institutional withdrawals.

Key Takeaways

• Despite challenges, international law remains a critical framework for state conduct.
• The prohibition on the use of force under Article 2(4) of the UN Charter continues to be relevant.
• The rise of populist-authoritarianism is impacting the justification of legal norms.
• International law encompasses a wide array of regulations beyond just conflict resolution.

Additional Details

• Prohibition on the Use of Force: Article 2(4) of the UN Charter serves as a cornerstone of international law. Although there have been numerous violations, this principle remains a critical benchmark for evaluating state behavior.
• Legal Justification: The expectation for states to justify actions fosters a dialogue about legality, even among powerful nations. The historical reliance on the doctrine of self-defense underlines the importance of legal reasoning in military interventions.
• Judicialisation of International Relations: Institutions like the International Criminal Court provide avenues for dispute resolution and accountability, reinforcing peaceful resolutions even amidst uneven compliance.
• Silent Functioning of International Law: International law operates subtly but effectively, ensuring economic stability and predictable trade rules without necessarily attracting headlines.

In conclusion, while international law faces significant challenges, particularly regarding the prohibition on force, it continues to adapt and remain relevant. The resilience of Article 2(4), the importance of legal justifications, and the extensive scope of international regulatory regimes affirm the necessity of international law in maintaining global stability. It serves not as a perfect order, but as a vital foundation amidst growing global uncertainties.

GS3/Defence & Security

Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS)

Why in News?

Recently, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted three consecutive flight trials of the Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) located at Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha. This development highlights India's commitment to enhancing its air defence capabilities.

Key Takeaways

• The VSHORADS is a man-portable air defence system.
• It is developed indigenously by Research Center Imarat in collaboration with various DRDO laboratories and production partners.

Additional Details

• Features: The VSHORADS is characterized by its short-range, lightweight, and portable design. It comprises surface-to-air missiles that can be operated by individuals or small teams to neutralize threats from aircraft and helicopters.
• Range: The missile has a maximum operational range of 8 kilometers and can effectively engage targets at altitudes of up to 4.5 kilometers.
• Technology: The system incorporates innovative technologies such as a miniaturized Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, both of which have been validated through successful testing. The RCS provides attitude control and maneuverability by utilizing thrusters, enabling it to deliver thrust in various directions as needed.
• The VSHORADS system is designed to fulfill the operational requirements of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

This advancement in air defence technology reflects India's ongoing efforts to strengthen its military capabilities and ensure the safety of its airspace.

GS2/Polity

Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation

Why in News?

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) has recently introduced measures to expedite the approval process for new medicines. This includes the immediate issuance of No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) for laboratory testing upon application receipt.

Key Takeaways

• The CDSCO is the National Regulatory Authority for medical devices in India.
• It operates under the Directorate General of Health Services within the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
• The head of the CDSCO is the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).
• CDSCO oversees the compliance of medical devices with safety, quality, and efficacy standards.

Additional Details

• Functions of CDSCO:The organisation is responsible for:
  • Approval of new drugs.
  • Conducting clinical trials.
  • Laying down standards for drugs.
  • Controlling the quality of imported drugs.
  • Coordinating activities of State Drug Control Organizations.
• Joint Responsibilities: Along with state regulators, CDSCO is responsible for granting licenses for critical drugs, including blood products, IV fluids, vaccines, and sera.
• Headquarters: The CDSCO is headquartered in New Delhi.

This move to fast-track drug testing clearances signifies a proactive approach by the government to enhance the healthcare infrastructure in India, ensuring quicker access to essential medicines for the population.

GS3/Defence & Security

Exercise Vayu Shakti-26

Why in News?

The Indian Air Force (IAF) recently conducted Exercise Vayu Shakti-26 at the Pokhran field firing range, located near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. This exercise is significant as it demonstrates the IAF's operational readiness and combat effectiveness, ensuring national security.

Key Takeaways

• The exercise was conducted at the Pokhran air-to-ground range.
• It showcased the IAF's tactical capabilities and operational preparedness.
• Guided by the core values of "Achook, Abhedya aur Sateek," it aimed to reassure the nation of the IAF's critical role in national security.
• Exercise Vayu Shakti-26 featured a simulated live combat environment for the first time.

Additional Details

• Operational Preparedness: The exercise highlighted the IAF's ability to conduct complex, integrated air operations in a realistic battlefield scenario.
• The event transformed a conventional exercise into a dynamic operational storyline, simulating real combat conditions.

Overall, Exercise Vayu Shakti-26 serves as a testament to the IAF's commitment to maintaining high standards of readiness and efficiency in safeguarding India's airspace and national interests.

GS3/Environment

What is the Amur Falcon?

Why in News?

Recently, three Amur falcons equipped with satellite transmitters in Manipur have been reported to be spending their winter migration in three different African countries.

Key Takeaways

• The Amur falcon is a migratory raptor belonging to the falcon family.
• Scientific Name: Falco amurensis
• Commonly known as Eastern Red-footed Falcon, Eastern Red-footed Kestrel, Manchurian Falcon, and Red-legged Falcon.

Additional Details

• Distribution:
  • Breeding occurs in southeastern Siberia and Northern China.
  • The species migrates long distances in large flocks to winter in Southern and East Africa.
  • A significant number pass through India, particularly in the northeastern states.
  • This species is known for undertaking the longest regular overwater migration of any raptor.
• Features:
  • A notable characteristic of both males and females is the orange coloration of the eye-ring, beak base (cere), and feet.
  • Typically, the male is smaller than the female.
  • These birds exhibit remarkable speed, strength, and keen eyesight, which assists them in detecting prey from a distance or while in flight.
• Conservation Status: Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

In conclusion, the Amur falcon's remarkable migration patterns and adaptability highlight the importance of conserving migratory bird species and their habitats.

GS3/Economy

New GDP Series 2022-23 Base Year

Why in News?

The government has released the New GDP Series for the base year 2022-23, which revises the growth for FY26 to 7.6% and Q3 growth to 7.8%.

Key Takeaways

• The base year for GDP calculations has changed from 2011-12 to 2022-23.
• Significant revisions have been made to the growth estimates for FY23-24, FY24-25, and FY25-26.
• Methodological improvements in GDP calculation methods have been implemented.

Additional Details

• Introduction of the New GDP Series: The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has implemented a new GDP series, replacing the previous base year of 2011-12. This revision is a standard statistical exercise that reflects structural changes in the economy and incorporates new data sources.
• Growth Rate Revisions: The new series estimates India's GDP growth for Q3 FY26 at 7.8% and full-year growth at 7.6%, higher than the previous estimate of 7.4%. FY23-24 growth has been revised down to 7.2% from 9.2%, while FY24-25 growth is revised up to 7.1% from 6.5%.
• Methodological Improvements: The most significant change is the transition from a "single-deflator" method to a "double-deflation" method for calculating real Gross Value Added (GVA), allowing for more accurate measurements of economic growth.
• Data Sources: The new GDP series incorporates additional data sources such as GST data, e-Vahan vehicle registration data, and the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises.

This revision aims to provide a more accurate representation of India's economic growth and aligns with international best practices. The comprehensive changes in methodology and data sources are expected to enhance the reliability of GDP estimates, which are crucial for economic planning and analysis.

GS3/Environment

Nilgiri Wood Pigeon

Why in News?

A recent research study highlights that climate change may significantly restrict the habitat of endemic species in the Western Ghats, such as the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon (Columba elphinstonii), potentially confining them to a few isolated regions by the end of the century.

Key Takeaways

• The Nilgiri Wood Pigeon is a species endemic to the Western Ghats in India.
• It is characterized by its large size, dark plumage, and a distinctive checkerboard pattern on its nape.
• This species prefers high-elevation wet evergreen forests and moist semi-evergreen forests.
• They primarily inhabit areas in Tamil Nadu and Kerala, particularly the Nilgiris and Anamalai Hills.
• Their diet mainly consists of fruits, which they forage from the canopy of dense hill forests.
• Threats to their survival include hunting, habitat destruction, agricultural expansion, and climate change.

Additional Details

• Habitat: The Nilgiri Wood Pigeon thrives in high-elevation wet evergreen forests, moist evergreen, and semi-evergreen forests, particularly in densely wooded ravines known as 'sholas'.
• Distribution: This bird species is primarily found in the Nilgiris and Anamalai Hills, with isolated populations reported in the Biligirirangan Hills, Nandi Hills, and northern Maharashtra.
• Conservation Status: According to the IUCN, the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon is categorized as Least Concern. Under the Wildlife Protection Act, it is listed in Schedule-I, indicating it is afforded significant protection.

In conclusion, the Nilgiri Wood Pigeon is facing numerous threats primarily due to human activities and climate change. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the survival of this unique species in its natural habitat.

GS1/Indian Society

Amondawa Tribe

Why in News?

The Amondawa tribe, an indigenous community from Brazil's Amazon rainforest, is notable for their unique perception of time and identity, lacking conventional markers such as clocks, calendars, or even the concept of numerical age.

Key Takeaways

• The Amondawa live deep within the Amazon rainforest.
• They do not have words for time-related concepts like "time", "week", "month", or "year".
• Identity changes rather than numerical age define personal growth.

Additional Details

• Absence of Numerical Age: Members of the Amondawa tribe do not track their birthdays or calculate their age. Instead, they mark personal growth through changes in identity.
• As children grow, they receive new names, and an individual may change names multiple times throughout their life, reflecting their social identity rather than a numerical measure of age.

This unique understanding of life highlights how cultural perspectives can shape our comprehension of time and identity, offering insight into the diverse ways human societies organize their lives.

GS2/International Relations

Pakistan-Afghanistan Tensions: A Conflict Rooted in History

Why in News?

Pakistan and Afghanistan are currently experiencing a significant escalation in hostilities, highlighted by Pakistan's aerial bombardment of Kabul and other regions following a cross-border attack on its military forces. The Defence Minister of Pakistan has characterized the situation as an "open war" with the Taliban-led Afghan government. This escalation is a culmination of months of rising tensions, with Islamabad accusing Kabul of providing sanctuary to militants who have been conducting attacks within Pakistan's borders. However, the underlying causes of the strained relationship between the two nations are deeply historical.

Key Takeaways

• The relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been characterized by distrust and conflict since 1947.
• Historical events, including regime changes and foreign interventions, have significantly impacted bilateral relations.
• The Durand Line remains a contentious issue, fueling territorial disputes and nationalistic sentiments.

Additional Details

• Regime Changes in Afghanistan: Afghanistan has undergone numerous political transformations, including the fall of the monarchy in 1973, followed by a period of communist rule (1973-1989) which failed to stabilize the nation.
• Civil War and Taliban Rule (1992-2001): The civil war led to the rise of the Taliban, which seized control of Kabul in 1996 with support from Pakistan.
• US Intervention (2001-2021): The US invasion post-9/11 resulted in the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, although it struggled with persistent instability and Taliban insurgency.
• Taliban Return to Power (2021): Following the US withdrawal, the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan, reinforcing its ties with Pakistan.
• The Durand Line Dispute: Afghanistan does not recognize the Durand Line as an international border, which continues to exacerbate tensions over sovereignty and territorial claims.
• Trade and Transit Issues: Afghanistan's reliance on Pakistan for transit routes has led to accusations of political coercion, particularly when Pakistan limits trade access.
• Mutual Resentment: Afghans often view Pakistan's influence negatively, while Pakistan feels unappreciated for its historical support to Afghan resistance movements.
• The India Factor: India's involvement in Afghanistan complicates Pakistan's security concerns, as Islamabad fears strategic encirclement.

The complexities of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations are underpinned by a long history of conflict, mutual suspicion, and external influences that continue to shape their interactions. The ongoing tensions highlight the need for a diplomatic approach to resolve these longstanding issues.