UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 21 October 2026

European Bee-Eater

October 21, 2026

European Bee-Eater Latest News

Recently, for the first time recorded sightings of European Bee-eater in Chennai.

About European Bee-Eater

It is a near passerine bird in the bee-eater family, Meropidae.
These brightly-colored birds predominantly eat flying insects, especially bees and wasps
It is also known as Golden Bee-eaters because of their beautiful coloration.
Appearance: It has dark, thick, and slightly downward curved bills.
Habitat: They are commonly found near freshwater systems and inhabit a variety of habitat types such as forest, savanna, shrubland, grassland, and agricultural areas.
Distribution: The have a broad distribution covering much of Europe and Africa.
Behavior: These are migratory, diurnal birds that spend most of their time foraging for food.
Diet: They are carnivores (insectivores) and mainly eat insects, especially bees, wasps, and hornets.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern

Source: TH

European Bee-Eater FAQs

Q1: Where do we find European Bee-Eater?

Ans: The have a broad distribution covering much of Europe and Africa.

Q2: What is the IUCN status of European Bee-Eater?

Ans: Least Concern

International Energy Agency

October 21, 2026

International Energy Agency Latest News

The head of the International Energy Agency said there is little chance of a return to normal oil market conditions next year, as the ongoing West Asia war keeps prices high.

About International Energy Agency

It is an autonomous intergovernmental organisation within the OECD framework.
It works with governments and industry to shape a secure and sustainable energy future for all.
Historical Background: It was established in 1974, in the wake of the 1973-1974 oil crisis, to help its members respond to major oil supply disruptions, a role it continues to fulfill today.
Mandate: Tracking and analyzing global key energy trends, promoting sound energy policy, and fostering multinational energy technology cooperation.
Focus Area: It focuses on four main areas: energy security, economic development, environmental awareness, and engagement worldwide.
Headquarters: Paris, France.
Member Countries: It consists of 32 member countries and 14 association countries.
- A candidate country to the IEA must be a member country of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

India joined this organization in 2017 as an Associate member.
Reports Published by IEA: World Energy Outlook, World Energy Balances, Energy Technology Perspectives, World Energy Statistics and Net Zero by 2050.

Source: TH

International Energy Agency FAQs

Q1: What is International Energy Agency?

Ans: It is an autonomous intergovernmental organisation within the OECD framework.

Q2: Where is the headquarter of International Energy Agency located?

Ans: Paris, France.

Baltic Sea

October 21, 2026

Baltic Sea Latest News

The Nordic Council Committee for a Sustainable Nordic Region announced a new initiative to combat pollution and to protect the marine environment of the Baltic Sea.

About Baltic Sea

It is a semi-enclosed inland sea of the Atlantic Ocean, situated in Northern Europe.
It is often cited as the world’s largest brackish inland water body.
It is the youngest sea on our planet, emerging some 10,000-15,000 years ago as the glaciers retreated at the end of the last Ice Age.
Surrounding Countries: It is bordered by Sweden, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Germany, Denmark, and Russia.
Key Branches and Basin
- It comprises several branches and basins, which include, from northeast to southwest, the Gulf of Bothnia, the Gulf of Finland, and the Gulf of Riga; the central-southern area known as the Baltic Proper; and the Danish straits of Kattegat and Skagerrak, which connect to the North Sea, an arm of the Atlantic Ocean.
Its water salinity levels are lower than that of the world's oceans due to the inflow of fresh water from the surrounding land and the sea’s shallowness.
Islands: It is home to over 20 islands and archipelagos. Gotland, located off the coast of Sweden, is the largest island in the Baltic Sea.
Issues: Algal Harmful Blooms are also one of the issues that affect the Baltic Sea.

Source: NC

Baltic Sea FAQs

Q1: How many countries shares border with Baltic Sea ?

Ans: It is bordered by Sweden, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Finland, Estonia, Germany, Denmark, and Russia.

Q2: Where is Gotland Island is located?

Ans: Baltic Sea