29th November 2025

Genetically modified (GM) crops introduce foreign genes from unrelated species, such as Bt genes from Bacillus thuringiensis used in cotton to produce insect-killing proteins. Genome editing (GE), however, modifies only the plant's own native genes. Using protein enzymes that act as "molecular scissors," GE alters specific DNA sequences to change how a gene functions—without adding foreign DNA. A custom-designed guide RNA directs these scissors to the exact spot in the genome. For India's new GE rice and mustard lines, scientists used CRISPR Cas technologies — Cas9 edited the drought-and-salt tolerance gene in MTU-1010 rice and 10 glucosinolate transporter genes in mustard. Cas12a edited the cytokinin oxidase 2 (Gn1a) gene in Samba Mahsuri rice to increase cytokinin levels, boosting the number of spikelets and grain yield. Importantly, Cas proteins—sourced from bacteria—appear only in the first-generation GE plants and are removed in subsequent breeding. The final GE plants are transgene-free, unlike GM crops that retain permanently inserted foreign genes.

 Tex-RAMPS Scheme will be implemented as a Central Sector Scheme, fully funded by the Ministry of Textiles. It is designed to address critical gaps in research, data systems, and innovation support and capacity development. Components of Tex-RAMPS Scheme — Research & Innovation: It promotes advanced research in smart textiles, sustainability, process efficiency, and emerging technologies. Data, Analytics & Diagnostics: It creates robust data systems including employment assessments, supply chain mapping, and the India-Size study. Integrated Textiles Statistical System (ITSS): A real-time, integrated data and analytics platform to support structured monitoring and strategic decision-making. Capacity Development & Knowledge Ecosystem: It strengthens State-level planning, dissemination of best practices, capacity building workshops, and organisation of sectoral events. Start-up & Innovation Support: It supports for incubators, hackathons, and academia-industry collaborations to nurture high-value textile start ups and entrepreneurship.

Vikram-I Rocket is developed by Skyroot Aerospace. It is India's new private orbital-class launch vehicle named after the notable space pioneer Vikram Sarabhai. Features of Vikram-I Rocket — Thrust: It uses an all-carbon composite structure for enhanced lightweight strength and efficiency. Design: It emphasises simplicity, reliability, and the ability to launch within 24 hours from any location. Stages: It has four stages and the first three stages are solid-fuelled, providing robust initial thrust, topped by a hypergolic liquid upper stage for precise orbital adjustments. Stage 4 uses a cluster of four Raman engines. These are hypergolic engines, (meaning they ignite instantly when two chemicals, MMH fuel and NTO oxidiser, come into contact). It is built to target the small-satellite segment and is capable of placing multiple satellites into orbit in a single mission. Payload Capacity: It can deploy up to 350 kg into low Earth orbit (LEO) and 260 kg into a sun-synchronous orbit (SSO). Innovation: Other key innovations include 3D-printed engines, ultra-low-shock pneumatic separation systems, and advanced avionics for real-time guidance.

International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance is an inter governmental organisation established in 1995. It works to strengthen democratic institutions and electoral processes worldwide. International IDEA has been granted UN observer status. Objective: To support stronger democratic institutions and processes, and more sustainable, effective and legitimate democracy. India is a founding member of International IDEA. Governance: The Institute's governance consists of a Council of Member States, a Steering Committee, a Finance and Audit Committee, a Board of Advisers and a Secretariat, led by the Secretary-General. Each year, the Council elects a Chair and two Vice Chairs among its Members States. Core Functions: Its working modalities includes four elements: knowledge production, capacity development, advocacy as well as convening of dialogues. It focuses on six work streams namely — Electoral Processes Constitution-Building Democracy Assessment Political Participation and Representation Climate Change and Democracy Digitalisation and Democracy Secretariat: Stockholm, Sweden.

 Chanakya Defence Dialogue is an annual platform that encourages discussion on contemporary security issues, technological advancements in defence, and strategic partnerships. It is organised by the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS). It is the third edition of the dialogue. Scheduled as a two-day conference, the gathering will feature military leaders, global strategic experts, diplomats, industry leaders, and young scholars. The 'Chanakya Defence Dialogue', named after the ancient Indian strategist Chanakya, aims to create a comprehensive platform for strategic deliberation on India's future security architecture. It examines India's security challenges and technological frontiers in an increasingly contested global landscape. The dialogue's outcomes are expected to inform future military policies and enhance cooperative security arrangements, potentially influencing regional peace and stability.