UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 5 November 2026

by Vajiram & Ravi - 5 November 2026

Vajiram & Ravi provides Daily UPSC Prelims Current Affairs for 5 November 2026, tailored for aspirants. We cover all relevant news and events crucial for the exam, ensuring you stay updated & well-prepared.

Cabinet Approves ₹14,500 Crore Viability Gap Funding Scheme for 92 GWh Energy Storage

November 5, 2026
Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems

Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems Latest News 

The Union Cabinet has approved the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme for Development of Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems, with a total financial support of Rs.14,500 crore.

About Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems 

  • The scheme aims to support the development of 92 GWh of energy storage capacity across the country.
  • Objective: To strengthen India's domestic energy storage manufacturing ecosystem through demand-side financial support and reduce dependence on imported components.
  • The scheme envisages the development of
    • 60 GWh of Hydro Pumped Storage Plant (PSP)
    • 30 GWh of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
    • 2 GWh of capacity through alternative energy storage technologies
  • Time Period: FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31.

Features of Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems

  • Allocation Method:
    • Energy storage capacity will be allocated through a tariff-based competitive bidding process.
    • Public and private sector electricity distribution companies will be eligible for VGF support for BESS and Hydro PSP projects.
    • Projects based on alternative energy storage technologies will be implemented by public and private sector entities.
  • Domestic Content Requirement (DCR): To promote indigenous manufacturing, BESS projects will be subject to a minimum Domestic Content Requirement (DCR) of 40%.

Significance Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems

  • It will strengthen India's power sector infrastructure, facilitating large-scale integration of renewable energy and ensuring reliable, affordable and round-the-clock power supply.
  • It will also provide an impetus to domestic manufacturing of battery energy storage systems, reduce import dependence and enhance the country's long-term energy security.
  • The VGF support will help improve the financial viability of these projects.

Source: PIB

Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems FAQs

Q1: What is the aim of Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems?

Ans: It aims to support the development of 92 GWh of energy storage capacity across the country.

Q2: What is the objective of Viability Gap Funding Scheme for Grid-Scale Energy Storage Systems?

Ans: To strengthen India's domestic energy storage manufacturing ecosystem through demand-side financial support.

TRAI Launches Network Anubhav Platform to Compare Internet Speeds and Manage Spam

November 5, 2026
Network Anubhav Platform

Network Anubhav Platform Latest News

Recently, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) launched the Network Anubhav Platform.

About Network Anubhav Platform

  • It is a geospatial dashboard that allows consumers to view location-specific network test results and access Do Not Disturb (DND) services through a web interface.
  • It was launched by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

Features of Network Anubhav Platform

  • It combines consumer test data with its independent drive test results to help consumers compare networks by location and telecom operators identify areas for network improvement.
  • User test data comprises the test results from MySpeed and MyCall apps of TRAI.
  • The platform delivers insights on various network parameters to consumers, service providers and TRAI.
  • The platform displays speed indicators based on tests conducted by users in a given area. These include median speeds and values indicating the speeds recorded at or above a specified level in 80 per cent of mobile broadband tests and 90 per cent of fixed broadband tests.
  • The portal also provides web access to DND facilities, allowing consumers to register preferences for commercial communications, submit complaints about unsolicited communications and track their status.

Source: LM

Network Anubhav Platform FAQs

Q1: Which organisation launched the Network Anubhav Platform?

Ans: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)

Q2: What is Network Anubhav Platform?

Ans: It is a geospatial dashboard that allows consumers to view location-specific network test results and access Do Not Disturb (DND) services through a web interface.

Prakasam Barrage: All 70 Gates Opened After Cyclone Murasu Triggers Heavy Rain

November 5, 2026
Prakasam Barrage

Prakasam Barrage Latest News

All 70 gates of the Prakasam Barrage were opened recently after heavy rain from Cyclone Murasu in the Krishna basin.

About Prakasam Barrage

  • It is a modern regulator and road bridge located at the southern entrance of Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh.
  • It is built across the Krishna River.

Prakasam Barrage Construction 

  • It was constructed between 1954 and 1957 and inaugurated on December 24, 1957. 
  • It replaced the old Krishna Anicut (built by Sir Arthur Cotton between 1852 and 1855), which suffered a major breach during severe floods in September 1952. 
  • This is one of the earliest major irrigation projects in Southern India. 
  • It was named after the first Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Tanguturi Prakasam. 

Prakasam Barrage Purpose

  • The scheme irrigates nearly one million hectares of land, converting the Krishna delta into a rich granary in Andhra Pradesh. 
  • This barrage also supplies water to Buckingham Canal which was constructed as an inland navigation canal initially but later used as an irrigation water supply canal. 
  • While irrigation is a primary function, the barrage also plays a crucial role in flood control and maintaining ecological balance in the region. 
  • Features:
  • The structure runs nearly 1223 m and features 68 gates that regulate the flow of water. .
  • Constructed primarily from locally sourced granite, the barrage exhibits significant thermal mass properties, which help in moderating temperature fluctuations in the surrounding environment. 
  • The gates are engineered using high-strength steel, providing durability against the dynamic hydraulic forces exerted by the Krishna River. 
  • The barrage's design incorporates a reinforced concrete structure that supports a series of sluice gates, allowing for precise control of water levels.    
  • It has three canals (Bandar canal, Eluru canal, and Ryves canal) that run through the city of Vijayawada, giving it a Venetian look. 
  • The famous Bhavani Island is situated amidst the backwaters of the barrage.

News: TH

Prakasam Barrage FAQs

Q1: What is Prakasam Barrage?

Ans: It is a modern regulator and road bridge located at the southern entrance of Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh.

Q2: Across which river is Prakasam Barrage built?

Ans: The Krishna River.

Q3: When was Prakasam Barrage inaugurated?

Ans: On December 24, 1957.

Q4: What is the significance of Prakasam Barrage in the irrigation sector?

Ans: It irrigates nearly one million hectares of land, supporting agricultural development in the Krishna Delta.

Q5: What is the approximate length of Prakasam Barrage?

Ans: Approximately 1,223 metres.

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