UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 24 September 2025

Direct Broadcast Network

September 24, 2025

Direct Broadcast Network Latest News

Recently, the National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with New Space India Limited (NSIL) to establish two Direct Broadcast Network (DBNet) stations in Delhi/NCR and Chennai.

About Direct Broadcast Network

The DBNet is a global operational framework designed for the real-time acquisition of satellite data from Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
It plays a critical role in Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) and supports a wide range of applications, including weather forecasting, cyclone monitoring, and climate research.
DBNet stations ensure rapid data availability, hence significantly improving the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts and related services.
The proposed DBNet stations will be capable of receiving direct broadcast data from various existing Indian and international Earth Observing System (EOS) satellites, including Oceansat, NOAA, and MetOp.
Key Benefits:

- Timeliness for NWP: It provides the near real-time availability of LEO satellite data, which is essential for generating high-resolution, short- to medium-range weather forecasts.
- Reduced Data Latency: DBNet captures data directly as satellites pass overhead, overcoming latency issues and enabling faster data delivery.
- Rapid Processing: NCMRWF will complete the full data processing chain within 5 minutes of a satellite overpass, ensuring timely ingestion of these datasets into MoES’s NWP models for across-scale forecasting.

Source: PIB

Direct Broadcast Network FAQs

Q1: What is a broadcast network?

Ans: A Broadcast Network is a type of network where a machine can send data to all other machines within the network simultaneously.

Q2: Which organization is responsible for coordinating the DBNet?

Ans: World Meteorological Organization (WMO)

Communication Security Certification Scheme

September 24, 2025

Communication Security Certification Scheme Latest News

Recently, the National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS) has designated M/s Compliance International Pvt. Ltd., Noida as a Telecom Security Testing Laboratory (TSTL) for testing IP Routers under the Communication Security Certification (ComSec) Scheme.

About Communication Security Certification Scheme

It is applicable for Security Certification of all telecommunication equipment for which Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE) applies.
This scheme falls under broader ‘Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecom Equipment (MTCTE)’, rules notified in September 2017.
- These rules have now been superseded by Telecommunications (Framework to Notify Standards, Conformity Assessment and Certification) Rules, 2025.
It mandates every OEM/importer/dealer who wishes to sell, import or use any telecom equipment in India, shall have to get their equipment security tested and certified under this scheme.
It is also applicable to such other Telecom Equipment, Hardware, Software or System as notified by the Government.
Implementing agency: National Centre for Communication Security (NCCS).
Scheme mainly comprises of three major activities

- Development of country specific Security assurance standards called Indian Telecom Security Assurance Requirements (ITSAR) for every Telecom equipment.
- Designation of third-party Telecom Security Test Laboratories (TSTL) meeting the specified requirements.
- The Designated TSTLs will be responsible for carrying out the security testing of telecom equipment as per ITSAR’s requirements
- Evaluation and Certification of the telecom equipment against ITSAR by NCCS.

Source: PIB

Communication Security Certification Scheme FAQs

Q1: Which organization is responsible for implementing the Communication Security Certification Scheme?

Ans: National Security Council Secretariat

Q2: What is telecom security?

Ans: It is a field of cybersecurity focused on protecting telecommunications infrastructure, data, and communications from unauthorized access, attack or damage.

Subansiri River

September 24, 2025

Subansiri River Latest News

An expert panel of the Union Environment Ministry has recommended environmental clearance for the 2,220 MW Oju hydroelectric project proposed on the Subansiri river in Taksing near the China border.

About Subansiri River

It is a Trans-Himalayan river originating from the western part of Mount Porom (5059 m) in the Tibetan Himalaya. (Kangig glacier range in Tibet)
It is also called the Gold River, the Subansiri River is famous for its gold dust.
It enters into the plains of Assam through a gorge near Gerukamukh.
It is the right-bank tributary of the Brahmaputra. It joins the Brahmaputra River in the Lakhimpur district of Assam.
Tributaries: Major tributaries of the river are Laro, Nye, Yume, Tsari, Kamla, Jiyadhol, Ranganadi and Dikrong.
Course:
- It originates from the Himalayas in China and flows towards the east and southeast into India.
- It flows through Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

Key Facts about Oju Hydroelectric Project

It is proposed on the Subansiri river in Upper Subansiri district, Assam.
It will be developed by Oju Subansiri Hydro Power Corporation Pvt Ltd.
The main power plant will have a capacity of 2,100 MW while the dam-toe plant will have a capacity of 120MW.

Source: IE

Subansiri River FAQs

Q1: What does the Subansiri River originates?

Ans: Himalayas

Q2: Is Subansiri an antecedent river?

Ans: Yes, it is an antecedent river.

SPARSH Pension System

September 24, 2025

SPARSH Pension System Latest News

Recently, System for Pension Administration – Raksha (SPARSH) has resolved legacy discrepancies—upto the extent of 5.60 lakh out of 6.43 lakh cases (87%).

About SPARSH Pension System

It is an initiative of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
SPARSH is world’s largest pension system for defence personnel which aims to provide comprehensive solution to the defence pensioners
Objective: Meeting the pension sanction and disbursement requirements for Armed Forces viz. Army, Navy, Air Force and Defence Civilians.
It is administered by the Defence Accounts Department through the Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions), Prayagraj and shall cater to all the three Services and allied organisations.

Features of SPARSH Pension System

Without relying on a third-party intermediary, this web-based system handles pension claims, and deposits pension payments into the bank accounts of defence pensioners.
It is a centralized sanction, claim and pension disbursement system with easy validation and rectification of data through self-verification.
It uses a digital process for pensioner identification, removing the requirement of multiple visits by pensioners to the pension offices.
The defence pensioner will be given a completely transparent view of his pension account through this platform.
It will capture and maintain a complete history of events and entitlements the pensioner right from the date of commencement of pension to the date of cessation of pension due to his/her last eligible beneficiary.
The system would cater to all activities of the pension cycle namely
- Initiation and Sanction
- Disbursement
- Revision
- Service and Grievance Request Management

Source: PIB

SPARSH Pension System FAQs

Q1: Which ministry is responsible for implementing the SPARSH system?

Ans: Ministry of Defence

Q2: What is the SPARSH payment system?

Ans: System for Pension Administration (RAKSHA) (SPARSH) is being implemented for meeting the pension sanction and disbursement requirements for Armed Forces.

Maitri 2.0 Cross-Incubation Programme

September 24, 2025

Maitri 2.0 Cross-Incubation Programme Latest News

Recently, the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) launched the second edition of the Brazil–India Cross-Incubation Programme in Agritech (Maitri 2.0) at New Delhi.

About Maitri 2.0 Cross-Incubation Programme

It is the second edition of the Brazil–India Cross-Incubation Programme in Agritech.
It is a two-way learning platform for co-creation between Indian and Brazilian innovators to build a stronger, innovative, and inclusive agri-food ecosystem for global food security.
It was launched by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
The Maitri 2.0 programme aims to:
- Strengthen incubator linkages between India and Brazil.
- Promote co-incubation models and exchange of best practices.
- Open new opportunities in sustainable agriculture, digital technologies, and agri-value chains.
- Foster inclusive innovation ecosystems that directly benefit farmers.
It reflects the broader Brazil–India strategic partnership, aligning with the leaders’ shared vision for cooperation in agriculture, emerging technologies, and food and nutritional security.
This initiative not only strengthens bilateral ties in agri-tech but also positions both nations as leading voices in global discussions on sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.

Source: PIB

Maitri 2.0 Cross-Incubation Programme FAQs

Q1: Which organization launched the Maitri 2.0 programme?

Ans: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)

Q2: Where was the Maitri 2.0 programme launched?

Ans: New Delhi

Combined Operational Review and Evaluation Programme

September 24, 2025

Combined Operational Review and Evaluation Programme Latest News

The Combined Operational Review and Evaluation (CORE) Programme is being organised by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS) in New Delhi.

About Combined Operational Review and Evaluation Programme

It serves as a unique platform for civil-military engagement on national security.
Organisations involved: It brings together senior officers of the Indian Armed Forces along with officers from the ministries of Defence, External Affairs, and Home Affairs.
Organised by: Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff
Theme: The themes of CORE include evolving regional and global security challenges like,
- The impact of technological transformation on the nature of warfare,
- The importance of strategic communication, and the growing need for enhanced synergy between civil and military stakeholders in addressing complex and multidimensional threats.

Features of CORE Programme

This programme will provide comprehensive exposure to contemporary national and regional security issues through insightful interactions with distinguished subject matter experts
It is designed to enhance strategic awareness and equip participating officers with fresh perspectives, enabling them to make pragmatic, well-informed, and balanced decisions in their future leadership roles.

Source: PIB

Combined Operational Review and Evaluation Programme FAQs

Q1: What is a key feature of the CORE Programme?

Ans: It emphasis on joint operations and civil-military dialogue

Q2: Which organization is responsible for launching the CORE Programme?

Ans: Integrated Defence Staff (IDS)

Tripura Sundari Temple

September 24, 2025

Tripura Sundari Temple Latest News

Recently, the Prime Minister of India inaugurated newly developed infrastructure and beautification works at the Tripura Sundari Temple complex at Udaipur in Tripura.

About Tripura Sundari Temple

Location: It is located in the state of Tripura. (The name Tripura is believed to derive from Goddess Tripura Sundari).
Built by: It was established in 1501 A.D. by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya of Tripura Kingdom
It holds a distinguished place among the 51 Shakti Peethas of the subcontinent.
It is fondly known as Matabari, is one of the most sacred landmarks of Northeast India. It is also revered as Kurma Pith, for its base shaped like the hump of a tortoise.

Architecture of Tripura Sundari Temple

Its square plan and sloping roof echo the style of rural Bengal huts, blending local aesthetics with spiritual symbolism.
- Within the sanctum rest two idols—the principal deity, Goddess Tripura Sundari, and an idol, smaller in size, known as Chhoto-Ma or Goddess Chandi are worshipped.
- The smaller idol once held special significance for the Tripura kings, who carried it on hunting expeditions and into battles.
It is celebrated as a symbol of syncretism, it unites Shaktism, Vaishnavism, and diverse communities, with Hindus, Muslims, and tribal groups all participating in its rituals.

Source: TH

Tripura Sundari Temple FAQs

Q1: Where is the Tripura Sundari Temple located?

Ans: Tripura

Q2: Who constructed the Tripura Sundari Temple?

Ans: Maharaja Dhanya Manikya

Key Facts About Morocco

September 24, 2025

Morocco Latest News

Recently, India and Morocco signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation in Rabat, with the Defence Minister of India.

About Morocco

Location: It is located in the Maghreb region in the Northern and Western Hemisphere regions of the Earth.
Bordering countries: It is bordered by Western Sahara to the south and Algeria to the east.
- It has coastlines on the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Mediterranean Sea to the north.
- It is the only African country with coastlines on both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
- Two small Spanish enclaves, Ceuta and Melilla, are situated on the country’s northern coast.
Climate: Most of Morocco north of Western Sahara, particularly along the coasts, experiences a typical Mediterranean climate, with mild wet winters and hot dry summers.
River: The Mououya River is the most significant source of water in Morocco. Its source is located in the Atlas Mountains and flows into the Mediterranean Sea.
Highest point: Jebel Toubkal is the highest point of Morocco and is also the highest peak of the Atlas Mountains.
Political System: It has a constitutional monarchy with two legislative houses.
Economy: It remains heavily dependent on the export of raw materials.
Language: Morocco’s official languages are Arabic and Tamazight (Berber). Arabic is spoken by about two-thirds of the population.
Capital City: Rabat.

Source: TH

Morocco FAQs

Q1: What is the capital of Morocco?

Ans: Rabat

Q2: What is the official language of Morocco?

Ans: Arabic is the official language, while Berber languages and French are also widely spoken

Bonnet Macaques

September 24, 2025

Bonnet Macaques Latest News

Recently, the Forest department has registered a case into the mysterious deaths of nine Bonnet macaques near Palode in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

About Bonnet Macaques

The bonnet macaque (Macaca radiata ), also known as zati, is a species of macaque endemic to southern India.
Behavior: These species are arboreal and terrestrial quadrupeds, live in multimale-multifemale troops. They are diurnal, meaning they are active during daylight hours.
They are highly arboreal and are strong swimmers.
Communication: They have adopted a wide array of communication methods through gestures, facial expressions, and sounds.
Habitat: They are found in a variety of habitats, including evergreen high forest and dry deciduous forest of the Western Ghat Mountains.
Distribution: The presence of the species has been recorded in Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Gujarat,
Diet: They are omnivorous and eat fruits, nuts, seeds, leaves, insects, soil, small invertebrates, eggs, and reptiles.
Reproduction: The bonnet macaque gestation period (pregnancy) lasts around 5-6 months.
Ecological Role: Bonnet macaques that live within forests involuntarily help with tree reproduction by spreading their seeds throughout the landscape.
Conservation Status of
- IUCN: Vulnerable
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.

Source: TH

Bonnet Macaques FAQ's

Q1: What is the conservation status of Bonnet Macaques according to the IUCN?

Ans: Vulnerable

Q2: What is the primary habitat of Bonnet Macaques?

Ans: Southern India, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas

Betla National Park

September 24, 2025

Betla National Park Latest News

A first of its kind AI-enabled nature experience centre is set to come up at Betla National Park.

About Betla National Park

Location: It is located in the Chota Nagpur Plateau of the Latehar district of the Indian state of Jharkhand.
It is the only National Park of the State and was notified in 1986.
It is part of the core area of Palamau Tiger Reserve. It is one of India’s first national parks to reserve tigers under the project Tiger.
The Mahuadanr Wolf Sanctuary is part of this national park.
It falls under the lndo-Malayan realm and is distinguished for its flora and fauna.
Vegetation: It consists of tropical wet evergreen forests, temperate alpine forests, and mixed (moist and dry) deciduous forests.
The region has been inhabited for centuries, with indigenous tribes like the Oraon and Munda calling it home.
River: The North Koel River flows through the park, creating scenic waterfalls during the monsoon.
Flora: It boasts dense tropical forests, including sal, bamboo, mahua, semal, and medicinal plants.
Fauna: Tigers, Leopards, Wolves, Wild dogs and Jungle cats, Chital, Deer and Bison etc.
Rare and endemic species like the Malabar pied hornbill and Indian pitta can be spotted here.

Source: New Indian Express

Betla National Park FAQs

Q1: Where is Betla National Park located?

Ans: Jharkhand

Q2: Which rivers flow through Betla National Park?

Ans: North Koel River