5th November 2026

Explanation - It is an indigenously developed short-range, surface-to-surface quasi-ballistic missile. It has been developed by the Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, in collaboration with several DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited are among the industrial partners involved in its production and system integration. The missile is optimised to destroy command centres, air defence sites, logistics hubs, and airbases. Features — It is powered by a solid-propellant rocket motor, allowing it to remain in a ready-to-launch state for extended periods. It can also be launched from mobile platforms, offering greater operational flexibility. It can carry multiple types of warheads against various targets. It has a payload capacity of 500-1,000 kg. It has an operational range of up to 500 kilometres. It reaches terminal speeds of Mach 6.1. It is equipped with guidance systems that provide a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of less than 10 meters. Unlike conventional ballistic missiles, which generally follow a predictable trajectory, a quasi-ballistic missile can fly at a relatively lower altitude and manoeuvre during its flight. These mid-course and terminal-phase manoeuvres make it more challenging for enemy radar and missile defence systems to track and intercept.

Explanation - The Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MPIDSA), New Delhi, is India’s foremost think tank for advanced research in international relations, especially defence, strategic and security issues, and providing training to civilian, military and paramilitary officers of the Indian government. It is funded by the Ministry of Defence but operates as a non-partisan and autonomous body. It aims to promote national and international security by carrying out research on defence and security-related issues and disseminating the knowledge among the policy-makers and wider public. MPIDSA is the only think-tank in India whose Director General is appointed by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister of India. It was established on 11 November 1965 as a non-partisan and autonomous body. In February 2020 IDSA was renamed as 'Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA)' after former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. MP-IDSA is governed by an Executive Council, whose members are distinguished personalities from various walks of life and which is headed by a President. The President of the Executive Council is by convention, an ex-officio position, held by the Defence Minister of India.

Explanation - It is a flagship platform of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) for addressing the multifaceted challenges of defence and security in India. Organised annually, the DDD brings together government officials, military leaders, defence experts, industry representatives, and international delegates to engage in constructive dialogue and exchange ideas. The inaugural edition of the DDD was held in 2024. The platform is designed to discuss the evolving landscape of international security and defence strategies, with a focus on India’s defence. DDD serves as a critical forum for addressing the need for a robust defence strategy that not only addresses immediate threats but also anticipates future challenges. DDD 2026 — It is the third edition of the dialogue. Location: New Delhi Theme: “Defence Reforms, Aatmanirbharta, Collaborations and Exports”

Explanation - It is an interactive data platform aimed at mapping the country’s science and innovation ecosystem across states and Union Territories (UTs). It enables policymakers to assess performance, identify gaps and compare their progress with other states. It is developed by NITI Aayog’s Science and Technology Division. Features — Information: It will bring together information on research institutions, publications, patents, start-ups, research funding and state-level policies in one place. National Overview: The platform will provide a national overview of India’s science and technology ecosystem, alongside state-wise profiles and benchmarking. Users will be able to compare any two states or UTs, examine their research output and assess their performance across sectors. Priority Areas: It will also cover 11 priority research areas of national importance, including clean energy, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, critical minerals and agriculture, allowing users to assess research output and compare progress across these sectors. Comprehensive Data: The scoreboard will capture data on central, state and private higher education institutions, R&D laboratories, deep-tech startups, Atal Tinkering Labs, and research funding from central, state and private sources. For patents, the platform will provide information on applications filed, patent strength, research areas and collaboration between states. It will also document state science and technology, startup and innovation policies, along with notable practices that other states can study and adopt.

Explanation - What Is the Protected Area Permit (PAP) Regime? Issued by the Government of India, the PAP authorises foreigners to visit states along India’s international borders in areas designated as protected or restricted. Legal basis: Originally imposed under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958. Coverage: Spans most northeastern states, including Nagaland. Timeline of Changes — 2011: PAP was relaxed for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland specifically to boost tourism. December 2024: The Centre reimposed PAP in these states, citing security reasons. Since then, the Nagaland government has consistently demanded its complete withdrawal.