12th October 2026

Explanation - Approved in 1999 by the then Defence Minister George Fernandes, Project Seabird (to construct INS Kadamba) is the largest naval infrastructure project for India. It involves creation of a naval base at Karwar (in Karnataka) on the west coast of India. Upon completion, this $3 billion program and effort will provide the Indian Navy with its largest naval base on the west coast and also the largest naval base east of the Suez Canal. The first phase of the naval base called Operation Seabird was completed in 2005 and the second phase started in 2011. A 3,000 feet long runway, docking space for 30 warships, hangars for aircraft are part of the Rs 19,000 core project spread over 11,000 acres of land. INS Kadamba is currently the third-largest Indian naval base and is expected to become the largest naval base in the eastern hemisphere after completion of expansion Phase IIB.

Explanation - It is a floral festival celebrated by the women folk of Telangana. History Behind Bathukamma — The term “Bathukamma” translates to “Mother Goddess Come Alive”, reflecting the divine feminine energy and protection. Folklore connects the festival to legends of Goddess Gauri and her miraculous survival as well as King Dhramangada and Queen Satyavati of the Chola dynasty. Historically, the Kakatiya dynasty emphasized Bathukamma as a celebration of feminine strength and agricultural prosperity. Every year this festival is celebrated usually in September October of the Gregorian calendar. Cultural Traditions: It is celebrated for nine days during Durga Navratri and the 9-day festivities will culminate on “Saddula Bathukamma” or “Pedda Bathukamma” festival. Bathukamma is followed by Boddemma, which is a 7-day festival. State Festival: It has been declared as the Telangana State Festival.

Explanation - Statement 2 and 3 are correct. EBV is a common and highly contagious infection. Transmission — It spreads through bodily fluids, especially saliva. EBV is a type of herpesvirus called herpesvirus 4. It has been found to be widely present in the human population. Most cases of Epstein-Barr virus affect children, teenagers and young adults, but anyone can get the virus. It usually does not cause any harm, but the virus gets reactivated inside the body in some unusual conditions like immunological stress or immunocompetence. This may further lead to various complications like a type of blood cancer called Burkitt’s lymphoma, stomach cancer, multiple sclerosis. Symptoms: Sore throat and throat inflammation, Fatigue or feeling extremely tired, Fever, Swollen lymph nodes, Rashes on your skin, Enlarged spleen and liver. Treatment: There is no specific treatment for EBV. However, some things like drinking fluids to stay hydrated, getting plenty of rest can be done to help relieve symptoms.

Explanation - First launched in 1981, it is issued every year by the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The report analyses current economic trends and major policy issues of international concern and makes suggestions for addressing these issues at various levels. TDR 2026 Highlights — Global trade is projected to grow by 4% in 2026, slower than the previous year’s 4%, but well above what was anticipated when the conflict in the Middle East began. Global trade reached a record $35 trillion in 2025. The report indicates higher trade values resulting from energy price increases and export controls. While trade between China and the US has fallen by more than 20% since 2024, East Asia has expanded trade with both China and North America. Developing economies, particularly India, are expected to drive notable growth despite overall global economic slowdowns. Global economic growth will likely slow to 2.6% in 2026, down from 2.9% last year, but developing economies are projected to grow 4% this year, down from 4.7% in 2025. Asia is projected to contribute 59% of global growth in 2026. The report showed that governments increasingly use industrial, trade, financial, and technology policies to pursue economic and national security objectives. Artificial intelligence products, comprising advanced computing equipment deployed primarily in new data centres, have become the main driver of merchandise trade; 82% of value added accrues to four supplier segments in this category.

Explanation - Limestone is extracted through mining, often involving the removal of vegetation and topsoil. It is then mixed with clay and heated in kilns to approximately 1,450°C. Traditionally, coal, petroleum coke and natural gas have supplied the required heat. The high energy demand generates substantial emissions. Process emissions — During calcination, limestone (calcium carbonate) decomposes into lime (calcium oxide) and carbon dioxide. This chemical reaction releases CO₂ independently of the fuel used. The resulting material is processed into clinker, which is ground with gypsum and, depending on the cement type, other supplementary materials.