30th March 2026

Explanation - It is a prestigious national award recognising outstanding contributions in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. The RVP seeks to honour scientists, technologists, and innovators whose work has significantly advanced India's scientific landscape and contributed to national development. Eligibility — Scientists/technologists/innovators working in government or private sector organisations or any individual working outside any organisation, who have made distinguished contributions in terms of path-breaking research or innovation or discovery in any field of science, technology, or technology-led innovation shall be eligible for the awards. People of Indian Origin staying abroad with exceptional contributions benefiting the Indian communities or society shall also be eligible for the awards. The awards will be presented in four categories — Vigyan Ratna (VR): For lifetime achievements in science and technology. Vigyan Shri (VS): For distinguished contributions in the field. Vigyan Yuva–Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB): To encourage young scientists (up to 45 years) showing exceptional promise. Vigyan Team (VT): For collaborative excellence by research teams of three or more members. The awards are administered by the RVP Secretariat, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ministry of Science & Technology, under the guidance of the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.

Explanation - It is a first-of-its-kind digital repository of data in India on brain structure and function from a range of psychiatric disorders. It was initiated in 2016 as part of the Accelerator program for Discovery in Brain disorders using Stem cells (ADBS project). Funding: It was jointly funded by the Department of Biotechnology and the Pratiksha Trust. Goal: To better understand neuropsychiatric disorders, disease onset, progression, and underlying biological changes. It will be made open source, thereby opening it up for clinicians and researchers aiming to study neuropsychiatric disorders and to better understand disease onset, progression and underlying biological changes leading to disease symptoms. It collects clinical, neuro-imaging, behavioural, genetic and other datasets on five disorders – addiction, bipolar disorder, dementia, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia. CALM-Brain will help clinicians and researchers — To understand the onset of neuropsychiatric disease, check progression, decode underlying biological changes, provide better diagnosis, and plan personalised treatments for patients.

Explanation - Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi and is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. These ticks are commonly found in wooded and grassy areas. The infection can lead to a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle and joint aches. One distinctive feature of Lyme disease is the appearance of a circular, red rash with a clear centre, often resembling a bull's-eye. This rash is known as erythema migrans. It's important to note that if left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to more serious complications affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system. Therefore, early detection and treatment are crucial. Preventive measures include wearing long-sleeved clothing and using tick repellent when spending time in tick-prone areas. Checking for ticks after outdoor activities and promptly removing any attached ticks can also help prevent infection.

Explanation - What is Biological Sex? Sex refers to biological differences such as reproductive organs and chromosomes. Humans typically have XX chromosomes (female) or XY chromosomes (male), though variations exist. Some individuals, such as those with Disorders of Sex Development (DSDs), may not fit neatly into this binary, as seen in cases like athlete Caster Semenya. Intersex individuals possess physical or genetic traits that do not align strictly with typical binary definitions of male or female. As an example of a DSD, individuals with Swyer syndrome may have female reproductive organs despite carrying XY (typically male) chromosomes. The text cites the high-profile case of Olympic athlete Caster Semenya, who has a DSD. Her situation has sparked legal battles over sports regulations that require athletes with high natural testosterone to medically suppress those levels to compete in women's categories. What is Gender? Gender is a social and personal identity — how individuals perceive themselves, such as male, female, or non-binary. It may not always align with biological sex. For instance, a transgender woman may be biologically male but identifies as female. Key Difference — While sex is biological, determined by physical and genetic traits, gender is psychological and social, based on identity. This distinction lies at the heart of ongoing debates in sports eligibility policies.

Explanation - An e-cheque is a digital version of a paper cheque, created, signed, and sent online instead of on paper. Process — The payer fills in the payment details and signs it using a secure digital method. It is then sent to the payee or bank, which verifies and processes it like a normal cheque. Advantages over Paper Cheques — Faster processing and settlement. More secure: reduced risk of physical fraud or tampering. Paperless: environmentally friendly and cost efficient. Easy to track: full digital audit trail.