UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 8 May 2026

Yildirimhan Missile

May 8, 2026

Yildirimhan Missile Latest News

Turkiye has unveiled a prototype of an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) named Yildirimhan Missile as part of a push to become self-reliant and to gain a foothold as a key defence player in the Middle East and among its NATO allies.

About Yildirimhan Missile

It is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) developed by Turkey.
It has a range of 6,000 km.
If launched from Turkey, the Yildirimhan will be able to hit targets across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
The missile can travel at up to Mach 25, an extreme hypersonic speed equivalent to 25 times the speed of sound, or nearly eight kilometres per second.
It has four rocket propulsion engines and is fuelled by liquid nitrogen tetroxide.
While liquid fuel introduces some “operational trade-offs” in terms of launch readiness, it enables greater optimisation of range and payload.
The missile is reported to be capable of carrying a warhead, or multiple warheads, with a total weight of up to three tonnes.
It is expected to be launched from a mobile wheeled launcher.

Source: ALJ

Yildirimhan Missile FAQs

Q1: What is the Yildirimhan Missile?

Ans: It is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

Q2: Which country has developed the Yildirimhan Missile?

Ans: Turkey has developed it.

Q3: What is the range of the Yildirimhan Missile?

Ans: It has a range of 6,000 km.

Q4: What fuel is used in the Yildirimhan Missile?

Ans: It is fuelled by liquid nitrogen tetroxide.

Ulsoor Lake

May 8, 2026

Ulsoor Lake Latest News

As Ulsoor Lake has been drained and the desilting process has been taken up after more than three decades, lake conservation activists have taken objection to the lakebed being desilted by only 0.6 metres, arguing that it is insufficient.

About Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake, also known as Halasuru Lake, is a man-made lake located in Bangalore, Karnataka.
It is the largest and oldest lake in the entire city of Bangalore.
It was built by Kempe Gowda II, the founder of Bangalore, in 1648 and named after the nearby village of Halsur or Alasur.
It was later renovated by Sir Lewin Bentham Bowring, the commissioner of Bangalore, in 1862 and renamed as Ulsoor after the anglicized version of Halsur.
It covers an area of 123.6 acres and has a maximum depth of 18 feet.
It has an irregular shape that resembles a map of India.
It has seven islands that are connected by bridges.
There is also a garden at one end of the lake known as Kensington Park.

Source: TH

Ulsoor Lake FAQs

Q1: Where is Ulsoor Lake located?

Ans: It is located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Q2: Who built Ulsoor Lake?

Ans: It was built by Kempe Gowda II, the founder of Bangalore, in 1648.

Q3: Who renovated Ulsoor Lake in 1862?

Ans: It was renovated by Sir Lewin Bentham Bowring, the commissioner of Bangalore, in 1862.

Gut Microbiome

May 8, 2026

Gut Microbiome Latest News

The human gut microbiome is shaped by diverse selective forces that originate from host and environmental factors and it substantially influences health and disease.

About Gut Microbiome

Gut microbiome, gut microbiota, or gut flora refers to the trillions of microbes, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, that live in the human gut.
Establishment of the human gut Microbiome:
- Infants inherit their first gut microbes during vaginal delivery or breastfeeding (chestfeeding).
- Later, your diet and other environmental exposures introduce new microbes to your biome.
The gut microbiota assists in a range of bodily functions, including:
- harvesting energy from digested food
- protecting against pathogens
- regulating immune function
- strengthening the biochemical barriers of the gut and intestine
Changes in microbiota composition can affect these functions.
Disease:
- While there are beneficial bacteria in the gut, there are also harmful bacteria that can enter the Gastrointestinal (GI) tract and cause infection.
- These infections include food poisoning and other GI diseases that result in diarrhea and vomiting.
- Research suggests that bacterial populations in the GI system play a role in developing gut conditions, including inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
- Low microbial diversity in the gut also has links to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
- The status of the gut microbiota also has links to metabolic syndrome.
- Disturbing the microbiota with antibiotics can also lead to disease, including infections that become resistant to antibiotics.

Source: NAT

Gut Microbiome FAQs

Q1: What is the gut microbiome?

Ans: The gut microbiome refers to the trillions of microbes living in the human gut.

Q2: What kinds of organisms are found in the gut microbiome?

Ans: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites are found in the gut microbiome.

Q3: How do infants acquire their first gut microbes?

Ans: Infants acquire them during vaginal delivery or breastfeeding.

Q4: How does the gut microbiota help in digestion?

Ans: It helps harvest energy from digested food.

Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme

May 8, 2026

Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme Latest News

The Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) has facilitated the establishment of more than 4 lakh micro-enterprises and generated employment for over 36 lakh people during the 15th Finance Commission cycle.

About Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme

It is a central sector scheme launched in August 2008.
It is a credit-linked subsidy scheme administered by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
It aims to create self-employment opportunities for first-generation entrepreneurs and promote sustainable livelihoods in the manufacturing and services sectors, especially in rural areas.
Implemented By: The scheme is implemented by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission

Eligibility for Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme

Any individual above 18 years of age is eligible.
There will be no income ceiling for assistance for setting up projects under PMEGP.
Beneficiaries should possess at least VIII standard pass educational qualification for setting up of projects costing above Rs.10 lakh in the manufacturing sector and above Rs. 5 lakh in the business/service sector.
Self Help Groups (including those belonging to BPL provided that they have not availed benefits under any other Scheme), institutions registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, Production Co-operative Societies, and, Charitable Trusts are also eligible for assistance under PMEGP.
Existing units that have already availed government subsidy under any other scheme of the Government of India or State Government are not eligible.

Source: PIB

Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme FAQs

Q1: PMEGP is implemented by which nodal agency?

Ans: Khadi and Village Industries Commission

Q2: Which ministry administers PMEGP?

Ans: Ministry of MSME

Great Nicobar Island

May 8, 2026

Great Nicobar Island Latest News

The government recently released a detailed clarification on the Great Nicobar Project, calling it a strategic initiative to strengthen India’s presence in the Andaman Sea.

About Great Nicobar Island

It is the largest and southernmost island of the Nicobar group in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
It is separated from the Andaman Islands by the Ten Degree Channel.
Geographically, the island is closer to Sumatra, Indonesia, than to mainland India, emphasizing its remote and strategic location.
Its coastline features over 100 kilometers of untouched beaches, renowned for their stunning coral reefs and crystal-clear waters.
It is also home to Indira Point, India’s southernmost point, located less than 150 km from Indonesia.
Mount Thullier, which is about 2,105 ft high, is the highest peak.
Galathea, Alexandra, and Dagmar are the major rivers.
It remains sparsely populated, with dense tropical rainforests covering more than 85% of its area.
The major tribes in Great Nicobar Island are the Shompens and the Nicobarese.
It is home to the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated site.
Flora and Fauna:
- It houses 650 species of angiosperms, ferns, gymnosperms, bryophytes, and lichens, among others.
- The tract is rich in plant diversity and fosters a number of rare and endemic species, including Cyathea albosetacea (tree fern) and Phalaenopsis speciosa (orchid).
- To date, 11 species of mammals, 32 species of birds, 7 species of reptiles, and 4 species of amphibians have been found to be endemic.
- Of these, the well-known Crab-eating Macaque, Nicobar Tree Shrew, Dugong, Nicobar Megapode, Serpent Eagle, saltwater crocodile, marine turtles and Reticulated Python are endemic and/or endangered.

Source: TOI

Great Nicobar Island FAQs

Q1: Which is the southernmost island of the Nicobar group?

Ans: Great Nicobar Island is the southernmost island of the Nicobar group.

Q2: Which channel separates Great Nicobar Island from the Andaman Islands?

Ans: The Ten Degree Channel separates them.

Q3: Which Indonesian island lies closest to Great Nicobar Island?

Ans: Sumatra lies closest to Great Nicobar Island.

Q4: Which is the southernmost point of India located on Great Nicobar Island?

Ans: Indira Point is located on the island.

Q5: Which is the highest peak on Great Nicobar Island?

Ans: Which is the highest peak on Great Nicobar Island?

Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

May 8, 2026

Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary Latest News

The Nagpur bench of Bombay high court recently sought responses from Maharashtra govt, forest authorities, and several resort operators over allegations of resort construction and commercial activities within the eco-sensitive zone surrounding Tipeshwar wildlife sanctuary.

About Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary

It is located in the district of Yavatmal, Maharashtra.
Spanning across 148.63 sq.km., the sanctuary derives its name from the nearby ‘Goddess Tipai’ shrine located in the Tipeshwar village.
Mainly, the sanctuary sprawls amongst the Patanbori and Parwa Ranges of the Pandarkawad Forest Division.
Four rivers—Purna, Krishna, Bhima, and Tapti—flow gracefully through the sanctuary, earning it the poetic title “Green Oasis of Eastern Maharashtra.”
The land here is rich with basaltic soil, a remnant of ancient volcanic activity.
The sanctuary is home to several villages whose inhabitants rely on the forest for their daily livelihoods.
Flora:
- The forests of Tipeshwar primarily consist of Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests, with Teak (Tectona grandis) dominating the landscape, covering nearly 60% of the area.
- Adding to the richness of the forest, red sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus) thrives here, a highly prized timber species known for its medicinal and commercial value.
- Other prominent trees that form a dense green canopy include Achar (Helicteres isora), Mahua (Madhuca longifolia), Lendia (Lagerstroemia parviflora), and Bhirra (Chloroxylon swietenia).
Fauna:
- The place shelters a wide array of animals that include Hyena, Chital, Black buck, Sambar, Jackal, Wild boar, Peacock, Monkey, Blue bull, Wild cat, Bear, and many more.
- The sanctuary is also home to several species of birds, including the peafowl, grey junglefowl, Indian roller, and several species of raptors.

Source: TOI

Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary FAQs

Q1: Where is Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary located?

Ans: It is located in the Yavatmal district of Maharashtra.

Q2: Which rivers flow through Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans: The Purna, Krishna, Bhima, and Tapti rivers flow through the sanctuary.

Q3: What type of soil is found in Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans: The sanctuary has basaltic soil.

Q4: What type of forests dominate Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary?

Ans: Southern Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests dominate the sanctuary.

Geocell

May 8, 2026

Geocell Latest News

CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) and BPCL have been recognized by the India Book of Records and Asia Book of Records for establishing the record titled “First Roadblock Section Constructed Using Technical Textile Geocell Made from End-of-Life Plastic.”

About Geocell

It is a three-dimensional cellular confinement system used in geotechnical engineering to improve soil stability and load-bearing capacity.
It consists of a network of interconnected honeycomb-like cells made from geosynthetic materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyester.
These cells are expanded on site to form a mattress-like layer and are filled with infill materials such as soil, sand, aggregate, or clay.
Once filled and compacted, the geocell layer integrates with the underlying soil to create a stable, reinforced structure.

Applications of Geocell

Pavement Load Support: By reinforcing the soil in the subgrade-based interface or within the base course.
Steep Soil Slope and Channel Protection: Three-dimensional lateral confinement of Geocell along with anchoring techniques ensures the long-term stability of slopes using vegetated topsoil, aggregate or concrete surfacing.
Earth Retention: These can be used for constructing steep vertical mechanically stabilized earth structures.

Source: PIB

Geocell FAQs

Q1: Geocells help in reducing which problem in hilly/soft soil areas?

Ans: Soil erosion & pavement failure

Q2: What is a Geocell made of?

Ans: 3D honeycomb-like polymeric material

JANANI Platform

May 8, 2026

JANANI Platform Latest News

Recently, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched JANANI (Journey of Antenatal, Natal and Neonatal Integrated Care) platform.

About JANANI Platform

It is a service-oriented digital platform designed to comprehensively monitor and maintain digital health records of women during their reproductive age.
It is developed as an upgraded version of the existing RCH portal.
Objective: The platform aims to ensure seamless tracking of maternal and child health services, covering antenatal care, delivery preparedness, delivery, postnatal care, newborn care, home-based newborn and young child care, and family planning.

Key Feature of JANANI Platform

It introduces QR-enabled digital Mother and Child Health (MCH) Cards, enabling portability and easy access to health records.
Smart Tracking & Alerts: It incorporates automated alerts for high-risk pregnancies, real-time dashboards for supervisory review, and due-list generation, enabling timely tracking, monitoring, and targeted interventions.
Interoperability: It has interoperability features, enabling integration with national platforms such as U-WIN and POSHAN.
The platform enables registration of beneficiaries using unique identifiers such as ABHA, Aadhaar (OTP and biometric), and mobile number, along with pan-India search functionality.
- It also provides self-registration facilities through web and mobile platforms, empowering beneficiaries to actively engage with their healthcare journey.
- It supports citizens by enabling timely scheduling and monitoring of antenatal care visits and immunizations, along with alerts and reminders to ensure that no critical health milestone is missed.

Source: PIB

JANANI Platform FAQs

Q1: JANANI Platform ensures interoperability with which schemes?

Ans: U-WIN & POSHAN Abhiyaan

Q2: What is the primary objective of JANANI Platform?

Ans: Digital tracking of pregnant women & children for MCH services

Cyphostemma annamalaii

May 8, 2026

Cyphostemma annamalaii Latest News

Recently, two Botany students from Annamalai University in Chidambaram and their guide have discovered a new plant species in the grape family and named Cyphostemma annamalaii.

About Cyphostemma annamalaii

It is a new plant species of Vitaceae Juss, commonly known as the grape family.
It was found in the southern Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu,
It is described and illustrated from the tropical dry forests of southern Eastern Ghats.
Properties of Cyphostemma annamalaii
- It is a climber with a round fruit that is yellow.
- The petals of the flowers are white or yellow. It starts with three leaves and ends with three leaves.
- Habitat: It is found in open, scrubby vegetation.
- It had a tuberous root and climbed by utilising surrounding vegetation for support.

What is Cyphostemma Genus?

It is the second largest genus, consisting of nearly 250 species.
It is found in tropical and subtropical regions.

Source: H

Cyphostemma annamalaii FAQs

Q1: Cyphostemma annamalaii is a newly discovered species of?

Ans: Grape family plant

Q2: Cyphostemma annamalaii was discovered in which state?

Ans: Tamil Nadu

White-Bellied Heron

May 8, 2026

White-Bellied Heron Latest News

A recently submitted proposal for Arunachal Pradesh’s Kalai-II hydel project skips mentioning the habitat of the critically endangered White-Bellied Heron.

About White-Bellied Heron

The white-bellied heron (Ardea insignis ) is a large heron species. It is the second largest living species of heron.
Other Names: It is also known as the imperial heron or great white-bellied heron.
Habitat: It inhabits the wetlands of tropical and subtropical forests in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas.
Distribution: It is mainly living in the foothills of the eastern Himalayas in northeast India and Bhutan to northern Myanmar.
Morphological Adaptations

- It is a slightly longer neck and compact body with shorter legs and extensive toes.
- The extra elongated, flexible neck with razorsharp serrated bill allows them to catch fish far in deep waters.
Diet: It prefers free-flowing riverine habitats with low disturbance, and predominantly depends on fish found in the river rapids.
Biological Role: Its presence in our ecosystem indicates the health of the rivers, the environment, the fish population, and water quality.
Threats: It is threatened by habitat loss, increasing disturbance and habitat degradation due to conversion of wetlands for agriculture and expansion of settlements.

Conservation Status of White-Bellied Heron

IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule-I.

Source: IE

White-Bellied Heron FAQs

Q1: What is the main habitat of White-Bellied Heron?

Ans: Freshwater rivers & wetlands in forested foothills

Q2: Under which Schedule of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 is it listed?

Ans: Schedule I

Yadava Dynasty

May 8, 2026

Yadava Dynasty Latest News

Remains of a 12th-century Mandir-style stone pillar from the Seuna (Yadava) dynasty have been recently discovered near the Vena River in Hinganghat, Wardha district, Maharashtra.

About Yadava Dynasty

The Yadava Dynasty, also known as the Seuna Dynasty, were rulers of a 12th–14th-century Hindu kingdom of central India.
At its zenith they ruled a vast kingdom stretching from the River Tungabhadra to the River Narmada, including modern Maharashtra, the north of Karnataka, and parts of Madhya Pradesh.
Originally a feudatory of the Eastern Chalukyas of Kalyani, the dynasty became paramount in the Deccan under Bhillama (c. 1187–91), who founded Devagiri (later Daulatabad) as his capital.
Under Bhillama’s grandson Singhana (reigned c. 1210–47), the dynasty declared independence and reached its height, as the Yadava campaigned against the Hoysalas in the south, the Kakatiyas in the east, and the Paramaras and Chalukyas in the north.
Later rulers continued expansionist wars with varying success.
During the reign of the last Yadava king, Ramachandra (reigned 1271–c. 1309), a Muslim army commanded by the Delhi sultan Alauddin Khilji invaded the kingdom in 1294 and imposed tributary status.
A later attempt to throw off the vassalage brought another Delhi army; Ramachandra was imprisoned but was later released and remained loyal to Delhi until his death.
In a further attempt, his son and successor died in battle, and the kingdom was annexed by the Khaljī empire in 1317.
The foundations of Marathi culture were laid by the Yadavas, and the peculiarities of Maharashtra's social life developed during their rule.
The Hemadpanti architectural style (stone masonry without mortar) is associated with this period.

Source: ORG

Yadava Dynasty FAQs

Q1: What was another name for the Yadava Dynasty?

Ans: The Seuna Dynasty.

Q2: During which period did the Yadava Dynasty rule?

Ans: From the 12th to the 14th century.

Q3: Which modern Indian states were included in the Yadava kingdom?

Ans: Maharashtra, northern Karnataka, and parts of Madhya Pradesh.

Q4: Who founded Devagiri as the capital of the Yadava kingdom?

Ans: Bhillama

Q5: Which Delhi Sultan invaded the Yadava kingdom in 1294?

Ans: Alauddin Khilji.