22nd May 2026

Explanation - Suryastra Rocket System is India’s first indigenous universal multi-calibre rocket launcher system. It is developed by Pune-based NIBE Limited in collaboration with Israel’s Elbit Systems. It is designed to deliver precision strikes against enemy positions, command centres, radar installations and logistics hubs deep inside hostile territory. Features — It is an advanced long-range rocket launcher system. It is mounted on a highly mobile 6x6 Tatra truck. Multi-target Capability: It is designed to engage multiple targets simultaneously at varying ranges. Precision: It achieves a high degree of accuracy with a circular error probable (CEP) of less than five metres during trials. Instead of being limited to a single type of ammunition, it uses interchangeable modular pods that can fire a variety of munitions. The system can also launch SkyStriker loitering munitions—often referred to as suicide drones, capable of traveling up to 100 kilometres . Technology used: The system is based on Elbit Systems’ PULS (Precise & Universal Launching System) launcher technology. It is equipped with a modern fire control system that integrates GPS, inertial navigation, and digital ballistic computation. Its semi-automated reload and shoot and-scoot capabilities reduce exposure to counter-battery fire.

Explanation - National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) is a commodities exchange dealing primarily in agricultural commodities in India. The NCDEX was established in 2003, and its headquarters are in Mumbai. The primary purpose of the exchange is to facilitate the electronic trading of agricultural derivative contracts like futures. The exchange mainly focuses on agricultural commodities like wheat, sugar, spices, and cotton. At present, the NCDEX is managed by an independent board, with the SEBI maintaining supervision and oversight of the exchange.

Explanation - Ammonium Sulphate is an inorganic sulfate salt obtained by reaction of sulfuric acid with two equivalents of ammonia. Properties of Ammonium Sulphate — It is a white odourless solid and has a high-melting point. It is very soluble in water. It is widely used as a fertiliser for alkaline soils. Ammonium Sulphate contains 21% nitrogen and 24% sulphur, making it an excellent source of essential nutrients for plants. Ammonium sulfate is available as a byproduct from the steel industry (recovered from coke oven gas) and from some metallurgical and from chemical processes. Applications of Ammonium Sulphate — Agriculture and Fertilisers: It is used in the agricultural region as a nitrogen fertiliser. Water Treatment: The water treatment industry is some other significant region where ammonium sulphate is appreciably used. Food Industry Additive: It is used as a food additive and dough conditioner. Pharmaceutical Industry: Ammonium sulphate also unearths programs in the pharmaceutical enterprise Textile and Leather Processing: The textile enterprise is any other vicinity wherein ammonium sulphate is hired, mainly in dyeing and printing tactics.

Explanation - Agricola Medal is the highest honour conferred by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. It is awarded to distinguished individuals who have played an exceptional role in advancing efforts toward global food security, improved nutrition and agricultural development. It is considered one of the highest honours granted by the Organisation in recognition of outstanding leadership and tangible contributions in these fields.

Explanation - Asian Productivity Organisation is an intergovernmental organisation which was established in 1961. The APO is committed to enhancing productivity for sustainable socioeconomic development through mutual cooperation and knowledge sharing. APO membership is open to countries in Asia and the Pacific that are members of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP). Members — It comprises 21 member economies from the Asia-Pacific region. Bangladesh, Cambodia, Republic of China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, Republic of Korea, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Türkiye, and Vietnam. India is a founding member of APO. These countries/economies support each other in their productivity drives in a spirit of mutual cooperation and coordinate with the APO through the designated national productivity organisations (NPOs). National Productivity Council (NPC) under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is the designated NPO for India. Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan Organisational Structure — APO is composed of the governing body, the NPOs, and the secretariat, which is headed by a secretary-general. The Governing Body is the APO’s highest decision-making authority and meets annually to set the organisation’s strategic direction, approve major proposals, and review Secretariat performance.