Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP): Uses, Benefits & NBS Scheme Explained for Competitive Exams
Introduction: As of January 2, 2025, Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) remains a focal point in India's agricultural economy. Being the second most consumed fertilizer in India after Urea, understanding its chemical properties and the government's subsidy framework (NBS) is crucial for aspirants of UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railways, and State PSCs.
What is Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP)?
Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) is a high-grade phosphatic fertilizer. It is preferred by farmers because it provides two essential macronutrients—Nitrogen (N) and Phosphorus (P)—in a single application.
- Chemical Formula: (NH₄)₂HPO₄
- Composition: Typically contains 18% Nitrogen and 46% Phosphorus (P₂O₅).
- Nature: Highly water-soluble, making it effective for quick nutrient release.
Key Benefits in Agriculture
DAP is indispensable for modern farming due to the following reasons:
- Root Development: The high phosphorus content is critical for seedling growth and strong root systems.
- Early Maturity: It helps crops reach maturity faster, ensuring better yield cycles.
- Soil Compatibility: While it temporarily increases soil pH (alkaline reaction), it eventually aids in plant nutrition in various soil types.
Industrial & Other Uses (Static GK)
Beyond the fields, DAP has several industrial applications that are often asked in SSC and Railway exams:
- Fire Retardant: Used to control forest fires by lowering the combustion temperature.
- Food Industry: Used as a yeast nutrient in winemaking and mead-making; also used in cheese cultures.
- Metal Finishing: Acts as a flux for soldering copper, brass, and zinc.
- Industrial Processes: Used in purifying sugar and in the manufacturing of certain chemicals.
Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme
For UPSC and Economy sections, the NBS scheme is vital:
- Launched: April 2010.
- Ministry: Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (Department of Fertilizers).
- Objective: To provide fertilizers to farmers at affordable prices.
- Mechanism: Unlike Urea (which has a fixed MRP), P&K fertilizers like DAP receive a fixed amount of subsidy decided annually/bi-annually based on nutrient content (N, P, K, and S).
Static GK: Quick Facts for Exams
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Most Used Fertilizer in India | Urea |
| Second Most Used Fertilizer | DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) |
| N-P-K Ratio in DAP | 18:46:0 |
| NBS Scheme Start Year | 2010 |
| Primary Nutrient in DAP | Phosphorus (46%) |
Why is it in News? (January 2025 Context)
In the current agricultural season of 2025, the government has been emphasizing the use of Nano-DAP to reduce import dependency and improve nutrient efficiency. Effective management of DAP stocks is essential for the Rabi crop season.
UDISE+ Explained: Meaning, Features & Key Highlights of UDISE+ Report 2023-24
Introduction: The United District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) is the backbone of India's school education data. Developed by the Ministry of Education, it serves as the largest Management Information System (MIS) globally. For aspirants of UPSC, SSC, Teaching (CTET/KVS), and State PSCs, understanding the latest UDISE+ 2023-24 report is essential for both prelims and mains preparation.
What is UDISE+?
UDISE+ stands for Unified District Information System for Education Plus. It is an updated and improved version of the original UDISE, launched to move from paper-based data collection to an entirely online real-time system.
- Implementing Agency: Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education.
- Coverage: More than 14.72 lakh schools, 98.08 lakh teachers, and 24.80 crore students.
- Purpose: To create a robust database for evidence-based planning and decision-making in the education sector.
Key Findings of UDISE+ Report 2023-24
The latest report highlights significant trends in Indian schooling:
- Total Enrollment: 24.8 crore students are currently enrolled in schools across India.
- Gender Ratio: Boys account for 51.9% while Girls account for 48.1% of the total enrollment.
- Minority Representation: Minorities make up roughly 20% of the enrollment, with Muslims being the largest share.
- Enrollment Drop: Interestingly, there has been a decline of over 1 crore students compared to the previous assessment year, indicating a need for policy review.
Infrastructure Gaps: A Critical Analysis
The report shed light on the physical and digital infrastructure of Indian schools:
- Computers: Only 57.2% of schools have functional computer facilities.
- Internet Access: Only 53.9% of schools are equipped with internet connectivity.
- Accessibility: 52.3% of schools have ramps for students with disabilities (CwSN).
Data Collection & Verification Process
UDISE+ follows a stringent three-level verification to ensure data integrity:
- Data Entry: Done at the school level by the Head Teacher using the Data Capture Format (DCF).
- Level 1: Verification by the Block/Cluster Resource Centre.
- Level 2: Verification at the District level.
- Level 3: Final validation at the State level, approved by the State Project Director (SPD).
Static GK: Quick Facts for Exams
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Form | Unified District Information System for Education Plus |
| Ministry | Ministry of Education |
| Launch Year (Plus Version) | 2018-19 (Initially UDISE started in 2012-13) |
| Number of Teachers | Approx. 98.08 Lakh |
| Type of System | Management Information System (MIS) |
What is an MIS? (Conceptual Clarity)
A Management Information System (MIS) is a computer-based system that provides managers with the tools to organize, evaluate, and efficiently manage departments within an organization. In the context of UDISE+, it helps the government track "Gross Enrolment Ratio" (GER) and "Net Enrolment Ratio" (NER) to meet Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).
Tobacco Board of India: Detailed Analysis of Functions, Role, and 2025 Current Affairs
Introduction: The Tobacco Board of India plays a pivotal role in regulating the production and export of tobacco, which is a major commercial crop in India. As of January 2, 2025, the board has been in the news for its successful implementation of IT-enabled auction systems that have significantly boosted farmers' income. This post covers every aspect of the Tobacco Board for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and Railway aspirants.
What is the Tobacco Board of India?
The Tobacco Board is a Statutory Body established under the Tobacco Board Act, 1975. It replaced the Tobacco Export Promotion Council to provide a more comprehensive regulatory framework for the industry.
- Established: January 1, 1976.
- Headquarters: Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Primary Focus: Regulation of Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) tobacco and export promotion of all tobacco varieties.
Key Functions and Roles
The board's responsibilities extend from the farm to the international market:
- Regulation of Production: It fixes the crop size annually to prevent supply-demand imbalances.
- Auction Platforms: It establishes registered auction platforms for the transparent sale of Virginia tobacco.
- Certification: It is the authorized agency for issuing the Certificate of Origin (CoO) and Certificate of Authenticity for exports.
- Farmer Welfare: Manages the "Tobacco Board’s Growers’ Welfare Fund" and provides financial assistance through banks.
- Research & Development: Sponsors scientific and technological research for the improvement of tobacco quality and sustainable farming.
Static GK: Indian Tobacco Industry at a Glance
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Global Production Rank | 2nd (After China) |
| Global Export Rank | 2nd (After Brazil) |
| Largest Producing State | Gujarat (approx. 45% share) |
| Key Producing Regions | Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh |
| Major Variety Regulated | Flue-Cured Virginia (FCV) Tobacco |
Why in News? (January 2025 Update)
The Tobacco Board recently announced that the earnings of FCV tobacco farmers have more than doubled since 2019-20. The average price rose from Rs. 124 per kg to Rs. 279.54 per kg in 2024-25. This growth is attributed to:
- Implementation of IT-enabled electronic auction systems for fair price discovery.
- Aggressive export branding in Middle Eastern markets like the UAE.
- Providing penalty-free windows for excess tobacco sales during drought-hit seasons.
Exam Oriented Facts (UPSC/SSC/Banking)
- Constitutional Status: Not a constitutional body; it is a statutory body under an Act of Parliament.
- Geography: Tobacco requires a frost-free period (90-120 days) and temperatures between 20-30°C. Well-drained sandy loam soil is ideal.
- Health Policy: While the board promotes tobacco as a crop, the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), to which India is a party, guides the reduction of consumption.
Belly Landing (Gear-Up Landing): Meaning, Risks, and Aviation Safety Explained
Introduction: Aviation safety techniques are a frequent topic in the Science & Technology and Geography sections of competitive exams. Recently, the concept of Belly Landing came into focus following a major aviation incident involving Jeju Air. Understanding the technical maneuvers and emergency protocols behind such landings is vital for UPSC, SSC, and Defence aspirants.
What is a Belly Landing?
A Belly Landing, also known as a Gear-Up Landing, occurs when an aircraft lands without its landing gear (wheels) fully extended. Instead, the pilot uses the aircraft’s underside (fuselage) or "belly" as the primary landing surface.
- The "Last Resort": It is considered an emergency technique used only when mechanical or technical failures prevent the landing gear from deploying.
- Risk Factor: It is inherently dangerous due to the risk of structural breakup, fire from friction sparks, and the plane flipping over.
Why Pilots Opt for Belly Landings
A cockpit crew decides to perform this maneuver in specific high-stakes situations:
- Mechanical Failure: The landing gear mechanism is jammed or the hydraulic system has failed.
- Off-Airport Landing: If a stricken plane cannot reach an airport and must land in a field, the pilot may keep the gear up to prevent the plane from "digging in" and flipping.
- Ditching: When performing an emergency landing on water, landing on the belly is safer to avoid immediate nose-diving.
- Human Error: In rare cases, a distracted crew may simply forget to lower the landing gear.
The Technique: Precision Under Pressure
Successfully executing a gear-up landing requires extreme precision:
- Leveling: The wings must be kept absolutely parallel to the ground. A slight bank could cause a wingtip to hit the surface, causing the jet to cartwheel.
- Controlled Descent: The pilot must maintain a shallow angle and the lowest controllable airspeed to minimize impact forces.
- Fire Suppression: Historically, runways were "foamed" to prevent sparks, though modern emergency services now focus on rapid response after the plane stops.
Static GK: Aviation Terminology for Exams
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Ditching | A planned emergency landing on water. |
| Flaps/Slats | Devices on wings that increase lift at low speeds (critical during belly landings). |
| Stall | A condition where an aircraft loses lift and begins to drop rapidly. |
| DGCA | Directorate General of Civil Aviation (Indian regulatory body). |
| Mayday | International distress signal for life-threatening emergencies. |
Current Affairs Context: Jeju Air Incident
In January 2025, Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 made headlines after a tragic belly-landing attempt at Muan International Airport, South Korea. The aircraft overran the runway, highlighting the severe risks even with modern safety protocols. This incident serves as a case study for Aviation Safety Management and Disaster Management topics in Mains exams.
National e-Governance Awards (NAeG) 2025: Full Winners List and Scheme Details
Introduction: Digital transformation is the cornerstone of Viksit Bharat. The 28th National Conference on e-Governance (NCeG) recently concluded in Visakhapatnam, where the National e-Governance Awards (NAeG) 2025 were presented. For the first time, a dedicated category for Gram Panchayats was introduced, marking a significant shift toward grassroots digital empowerment. This post is essential for UPSC GS Paper II, SSC, and Banking exams.
About National e-Governance Awards (NAeG)
The NAeG awards are presented annually by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG) to recognize excellence in the implementation of e-Governance initiatives.
- Theme 2025: "Viksit Bharat: Civil Service and Digital Transformation".
- Prize Money: ₹10 Lakh for Gold Award and ₹5 Lakh for Silver Award.
- New Addition: A special category for "Grassroots Level Initiatives in Gram Panchayats."
Major Winners: Gold Category (2025)
- SAMPADA 2.0: Commercial Tax Dept, Madhya Pradesh (For paperless property registration).
- Mining Tenement System: Indian Bureau of Mines, Ministry of Mines.
- Digi Yatra: Ministry of Civil Aviation (For seamless air travel).
- Bhashini Division: Ministry of Electronics and IT (For AI-based language translation).
- Quantum Safe VPN: Ministry of Defence (For advanced cybersecurity).
- Rohini Gram Panchayat: Dhule, Maharashtra (Gold in Grassroots category).
Grassroots Digital Revolution: Gram Panchayat Winners
In a historic move, four Panchayats were recognized for deepening digital service delivery:
| Award | Gram Panchayat | State | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | Rohini | Maharashtra | 100% Digital Literacy & Paperless e-Office. |
| Silver | West Majlishpur | Tripura | Citizen Charter-driven online certificates. |
| Jury Award | Palsana | Gujarat | QR/UPI based property tax payments. |
| Jury Award | Suakati | Odisha | 24/7 service tracking through OdishaOne. |
Static GK: Quick Facts for Competitive Exams
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Nodal Department | DARPG (Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions) |
| Conference Location | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh (28th Edition) |
| DARPG Secretary | Shri V. Srinivas (Current) |
| Digital India Launch | July 1, 2015 |
Significance for UPSC & SSC
These awards highlight the move from "Government to e-Government." Key pillars discussed during the conference included:
- Cyber Security: Protecting digital sovereignty.
- Data Analytics: Using data for risk-based threat intelligence (e.g., DHRISTI by NIC).
- AI Inclusivity: Bridging the language gap through platforms like BHASHINI.
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary: A Vital Jewel of Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve
Introduction: Environmental conservation and protected areas are core topics in Environment & Ecology for competitive exams. The Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the southern Western Ghats, is a biodiversity hotspot famous for its unique flora and its role in the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve. As of January 2, 2025, it remains a critical area for eco-tourism and conservation studies.
Location and Geographical Context
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Kollam district of Kerala. It was established in 1984 and is named after the endemic tree species Gluta travancorica, known locally as Chenkurunji.
- Area: Approximately 172 square kilometers.
- Region: Southern Western Ghats.
- Biosphere Connection: It is a major component of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves).
Rivers and Drainage System
The sanctuary's ecosystem is sustained by a robust river network:
- The sanctuary is drained by the Shendurney, Kazhuthuruthy, and Kulathupuzha rivers.
- These three rivers converge to form the Kallada River.
- The Thenmala Dam (Parappar Reservoir) is located within the sanctuary, making it a key site for irrigation and power in Kerala.
Biodiversity: Flora and Fauna
The sanctuary is characterized by dense tropical forests:
- Flora: Primarily Tropical Evergreen and Semi-Evergreen forests. The Chenkurunji tree (Gluta travancorica) is the floral icon of this sanctuary.
- Fauna: Home to the Lion-tailed Macaque, Nilgiri Langur, Elephants, Tigers, and Leopards.
- Avifauna: Over 200 bird species, including the Great Indian Hornbill and Malabar Whistling Thrush.
Static GK: Quick Facts for Aspirants
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Kerala (Kollam District) |
| Named After | Chenkurunji Tree (Endemic) |
| Part of Biosphere Reserve | Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve |
| First Eco-tourism Project | Thenmala (India's first planned eco-tourism site) |
| Key River | Kallada River |
The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Cluster
For UPSC Prelims, it is crucial to remember the three major sanctuaries that form the core of the Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve:
- Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary
- Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary
- Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Central Ground Water Board (CGWB): Functions, Mandate, and 2025 Quality Report
Introduction: Groundwater is a vital resource for India's agriculture and drinking water security. The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is the national apex agency responsible for its management. On January 2, 2025, CGWB's latest findings on rising nitrate and uranium contamination in several states have raised significant environmental concerns. This post provides a complete guide for UPSC, SSC, Banking, and Defence exams.
What is the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB)?
CGWB is a multidisciplinary scientific organization under the Ministry of Jal Shakti. It plays a pivotal role in assessing and regulating the country's groundwater resources.
- Established: 1970 (by renaming the Exploratory Tube Wells Organization).
- Headquarters: Bhujal Bhawan, Faridabad, Haryana.
- Nature: Subordinate office under the Department of Water Resources.
- Key Arm: The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, serves as the regulatory wing.
Major Functions and Mandate
The CGWB operates through 18 regional offices with the following primary responsibilities:
- Resource Assessment: Periodic evaluation of groundwater availability and quality across all districts.
- NAQUIM Program: Implementation of the National Aquifer Mapping and Management Program to map India's underground water-bearing rocks.
- Artificial Recharge: Promoting rainwater harvesting and artificial recharge projects in over-exploited blocks.
- Monitoring: Operating a vast network of observation wells to track water level fluctuations and chemical composition.
Current Affairs Update: 2025 Quality Report
According to the Annual Ground Water Quality Report 2025, several alarming trends have been identified:
- Nitrate Contamination: Nearly 440 districts now report nitrate levels above the safe limit (45 mg/l), primarily due to excessive fertilizer use and poor sewage management.
- Uranium Presence: High levels of Uranium have been detected in over-exploited zones of Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
- Arsenic & Fluoride: Remains a major threat in the Gangetic plains (West Bengal, Bihar) and arid regions like Telangana.
Static GK: Quick Facts for Competitive Exams
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Parent Ministry | Ministry of Jal Shakti (est. 2019) |
| Nodal Act for Regulation | Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 (via CGWA) |
| National Aquifer Mapping | NAQUIM (World's largest mapping program) |
| Chief Training Institute | Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training & Research Institute (Raipur) |
Exam Oriented Points (UPSC/SSC)
- Blue Baby Syndrome: Excessive nitrate in drinking water can lead to methemoglobinemia, commonly known as Blue Baby Syndrome.
- Extraction Rate: India is the largest user of groundwater in the world, extracting more than China and the USA combined.
- Atal Bhujal Yojana: A World Bank-funded scheme implemented by CGWB for community-led sustainable groundwater management.
Stellaria bengalensis: New Plant Species Discovered in West Bengal
Introduction: India’s rich biodiversity continues to surprise the scientific community. On January 2, 2025, researchers from the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, and PSG College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore, officially announced the discovery of a new plant species named Stellaria bengalensis. This discovery is pivotal for aspirants of UPSC, State PCS, and SSC, as questions regarding new flora and fauna are frequent in the environment section.
Discovery and Taxonomy
The new species belongs to the genus Stellaria within the Caryophyllaceae family (commonly known as the carnation family). It was identified by researchers Arya S. and Harsh Singh and published in the international journal Phytotaxa.
- Second Discovery: This is the second Stellaria species discovered in India recently, following Stellaria mcclintockiae found in Kerala.
- Habitat: It was discovered in the Sangser forest, Kalimpong district, West Bengal.
- Altitude: Thrives at high altitudes ranging between 2,245 and 2,450 meters.
Key Characteristics of Stellaria bengalensis
Understanding the physical traits of new species is essential for identifying them in conceptual exam questions:
- Form: It is a small annual herb, reaching a height of 8 to 10.5 cm.
- Flowers: Features small white, star-shaped flowers (the name "Stellaria" comes from the Latin word for star).
- Unique Traits: Unlike many related species, it lacks bracts and has petals shorter than or concealed within the sepals.
- Life Cycle: Flowering and fruiting occur primarily from May to September.
Ecological and Conservation Status
As per the researchers' assessment, Stellaria bengalensis has a specific ecological niche:
- Muddy Slopes: Like its Kerala relative, it prefers growing on muddy soil slopes.
- IUCN Status: Currently classified as "Data Deficient" (DD). This means there is not yet enough information to assess its risk of extinction.
- Distribution: While currently found in the Eastern Himalayas (Kalimpong), researchers believe it might exist in other parts of the Western Himalayas.
Static GK: Stellaria Genus & Caryophyllaceae Family
| Term | Details |
|---|---|
| Genus Stellaria | Includes about 200 species worldwide; approximately 22 found in India. |
| Common Name | Often referred to as "Chickweeds" or "Starworts." |
| Caryophyllaceae | The carnation family, comprising about 2,000 species, mostly herbaceous. |
| Phytotaxa | A peer-reviewed scientific journal for botanical taxonomy. |
Significance for Competitive Exams
Aspirants should link this discovery to broader topics like Himalayan Biodiversity and Species conservation. This topic fits perfectly into:
- UPSC Prelims: Geography (Flora) & Environment (New Species).
- SSC/State Exams: General Awareness (Discoveries in West Bengal).
- Interview/Mains: Role of taxonomy in documenting India's natural heritage.
Tinnitus: Understanding the "Ringing in the Ears" and Latest 2025 Research
Introduction: Tinnitus is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying condition. Affecting nearly 15-20% of the global population, it is characterized by the perception of noise or ringing in the ears without an external source. In late 2024 and early 2025, significant advancements in diagnostic technology and objective measurement have made this a trending topic for UPSC (Science & Tech) and SSC (General Awareness) exams.
What is Tinnitus?
Tinnitus is the medical term for hearing phantom noises. These sounds are generated by the brain or auditory system rather than an external sound source.
[Image of the human ear and auditory nerve]- Subjective Tinnitus: The most common form where only the patient hears the sound. It is often linked to auditory nerve or brain processing issues.
- Objective Tinnitus: A rare form where a doctor can actually hear the sound using a stethoscope, often caused by blood vessel (vascular) issues or muscle contractions.
Common Symptoms and Sounds
Patients experience various "phantom" noises, including:
- Ringing (High-pitched)
- Buzzing or Hissing
- Roaring or Whooshing (Often linked to Pulsatile Tinnitus)
- Clicking (Associated with muscle spasms in the ear)
Primary Causes of Tinnitus
Understanding the etiology is crucial for competitive exams:
- Hearing Loss: Age-related (Presbycusis) or noise-induced damage to the hair cells in the cochlea.
- Earwax Blockage: Physical obstruction causing pressure changes.
- Medical Conditions: Meniere’s disease, TMJ (jaw) disorders, and high blood pressure.
- Medications: High doses of Aspirin, certain antibiotics, and diuretics (Ototoxicity).
2025 Current Affairs Update: Medical Breakthroughs
As of January 2025, several key developments have occurred:
- IIT Bombay Innovation: Researchers at IIT Bombay have developed an affordable diagnostic device that uses precise tinnitus matching and multimodal treatment tracking.
- Objective Biomarkers: Scientists at Harvard and Mass General Brigham have identified facial micro-movements and pupil dilation as objective measures to gauge tinnitus severity, moving away from purely subjective patient questionnaires.
- Lenire Device: The first FDA-approved bimodal neuromodulation device (combining sound with tongue stimulation) has shown over 90% clinical success in 2025 real-world studies.
Static GK: Quick Facts for Exams
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Auditory System Symptom |
| Cochlea | The spiral-shaped part of the inner ear containing hearing hair cells. |
| Ototoxicity | The property of being toxic to the ear (specifically the cochlea or auditory nerve). |
| Pulsatile Tinnitus | Rhythmic noise that follows the heartbeat. |
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