APTI PLUS OAS GAZETTE

JULY 2025

CREATING CIVIL SERVANTS FOR THE NATION 27 TH

EDITION

Odisha launches e-Registration

App for Revenue Services

Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Pattachitra from Odisha

Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) gains Global Spotlight

Odisha bans Refined Sugar,

Greater Flamingo Sanctuary restricts Salt in School Meals
in Dhanushkodi

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE OF CURRENT AFFAIRS FOR ODISHA STATE CIVIL SERVICES EXAMS
 APTI PLUS OAS GAZETTE
A House Journal of APTI PLUS
JULY 2025

CONTENT

OPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS

APPOINTMENTS 5
AWARDS 6
BOOKS & AUTHORS [CURRENT] 8
BOOKS & AUTHORS [STATIC GK] 8
SPORTS 8
IMPORTANT DAYS 11

ODISHA CURRENT AFFAIRS 13

PROTECTED AREAS OF ODISHA (GK) 20
SOME RIVERS IN ODISHA 21
NATURAL SPRINGS AND HOT SPRINGS IN ODISHA 22
KEY LAKES OF ODISHA 22
SOME TEMPLES IN ODISHA 23
SOME FREEDOM FIGHTERS OF ODISHA 23
WOMEN IN ODISHA'S FREEDOM STRUGGLE 24
MINERALS OF ODISHA 25
STATIC GK 27
CURRENT ONE LINER 29

COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE OF CURRENT AFFAIRS FOR ODISHA STATE CIVIL SERVICES EXAMS
Page |4
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SYLLABUS:
CURRENT EVENTS OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE:
TO BE READ FROM THE IAS GAZETTE: COVERS – POLITY, GOVERNMENT SCHEMES, SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY, ECONOMY, SECURITY, INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, SECURITY, GEOGRAPHY, SOCIETY,
ENVIRONMENT AND ECOLOGY

Chief of DRDO May 14, 2025, following the end of Preeti Sudan‟s
 Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman of DRDO, has tenure. He played a pivotal role in defence
been granted a second one-year extension till May reforms, including the CDS creation, Agniveer
31, 2026, under Fundamental Rule 56(d), citing scheme and AtmaNirbhar Bharat in defence. As
public interest. His leadership is considered part of MeitY, he contributed to UPI, Aadhaar and
crucial for advancing indigenous defence GeM.
technologies. The Appointments Committee of  The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is
the Cabinet (ACC) approved this extension, a constitutional body established under Part XIV
underlining the strategic importance of his of the Indian Constitution to recruit officers for
ongoing contributions to national defence. the All India Services and Central Civil Services
(Group A and B). Headquartered at Dholpur
Director of the Marine Products Export House, New Delhi, it operates independently and
Development Authority (MPEDA) reports directly to the President of India. Though
 Ram Mohan M K has been appointed as the new its advice is not binding, UPSC holds a high
Director of the Marine Products Export degree of autonomy, akin to the judiciary and the
Development Authority (MPEDA). Election Commission.
 The Marine Products Export Development
Authority (MPEDA), a statutory body under the Executive Chairman of NALSA
Ministry of Commerce and Industry, was  Justice Surya Kant, a senior judge of the Supreme
established on 24 August 1972 through the Court, has been appointed as the new Executive
MPEDA Act, 1972, replacing the earlier Marine Chairman of NALSA effective May 14, 2025,
Products Export Promotion Council (1961). succeeding Justice BR Gavai. Appointed by the
Headquartered in Kochi, MPEDA is tasked with President of India under the Legal Services
promoting and regulating the export of marine Authorities Act, 1987, his elevation follows the
products from India. It operates regional, sub- convention of nominating the second senior-most
regional and trade offices in New Delhi, Tokyo SC judge. Known for promoting legal aid and
and New York to strengthen global outreach. access to justice, Justice Kant previously served as
 MPEDA offers services such as registration of Chief Justice of the Himachal Pradesh High
export infrastructure, trade data dissemination, Court. NALSA, established in 1995 and
international marketing of Indian seafood and headquartered in New Delhi, works to ensure free
implementation of modernisation measures-- legal services to the underprivileged, in line with
including cold chain infrastructure, quality labs Article 39-A of the Constitution. His appointment
and aquaculture development. It also promotes is seen as a key step towards enhancing social
brackish water aquaculture and deep-sea fishing justice and strengthening legal outreach.
through joint ventures and equity participation,
ensuring India‘s seafood exports remain 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI)
sustainable, high-quality and globally  Justice B.R. Gavai was appointed as the 52nd
competitive. Chief Justice of India (CJI). The CJI is the
highest-ranking judge of the Supreme Court and
Chairman of UPSC head of the Indian judiciary, appointed by the
 Ajay Kumar, former Defence Secretary and a President based on the recommendation of the
1985-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, has outgoing CJI and consultations with other judges,
been appointed as the new Chairman of UPSC on as per Article 124(2) of the Constitution. The Chief
 Page |6

Justice serves until the age of 65 or until removed tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam
through impeachment under Article 124(4), which terror attack.
requires a two-thirds majority in both Houses of  The National Security Advisory Board (NSAB),
Parliament for proven misbehavior or incapacity. established in 1998, functions under the National
Traditionally, the most senior judge is appointed Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and works in
as CJI, although this convention has been broken coordination with the Strategic Policy Group
twice in history. The Chief Justice allocates cases, (SPG) and Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC). It
forms constitutional benches, oversees court advises the National Security Council (NSC) on
administration and appoints court officials. issues related to external threats, internal stability
Additionally, the CJI acts as the de facto and emerging challenges, offering independent,
Chancellor of the National Law School of India long-term policy analysis. NSAB played a crucial
University and Visitor of the National Law role in shaping India's Nuclear Doctrine (2001)
University, Delhi. and the National Security Review (2007). Headed
by a Chairperson, usually a senior former official,
Chairman of the National Security Advisory it includes members from diplomacy, defence,
Board (NSAB) academia, economics and science. The board has
 Alok Joshi, former R&AW chief, has been no fixed size, allowing flexibility based on
appointed as the new Chairman of the National evolving needs, with members appointed for a
Security Advisory Board (NSAB) amid rising two-year term.

National e-Governance Awards 2025 securing Thailand‟s first-ever win in the pageant's
Context history. Hasset Dereje Admassu of Ethiopia was
 Rohini Gram Panchayat, a fully tribal village in the runner-up.
Dhule district, Maharashtra, has won the Gold Details
Award at the National e-Governance Awards  Miss World is the oldest surviving international
2025, gaining national recognition for its digital beauty pageant, founded in 1951 in the United
governance initiatives. Kingdom by Eric Morley. After his death in 2000,
Details his wife Julia Morley took over the leadership.
 The National e-Governance Awards Scheme, one Alongside Miss Universe, Miss Earth and Miss
of India‘s most prestigious digital governance International, Miss World is part of the Big Four
recognitions, aims to promote excellence in e- beauty pageants. In the 1980s, it introduced the
Governance implementation. In 2025, 16 awards “Beauty With a Purpose” theme, emphasizing
were conferred--10 Gold and 6 Silver--across six intelligence and humanitarian work.
categories, including AI innovation, cyber
security and grassroot service delivery. Winners National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025
receive a trophy, certificate and Rs 10 lakh (Gold) Context
or Rs 5 lakh (Silver) to support public welfare  President Droupadi Murmu presented the
initiatives. The scheme is administered by the National Florence Nightingale Awards 2025 to 15
Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & nursing professionals on May 30 at Rashtrapati
Pensions. Rohini Gram Panchayat in Bhavan for their outstanding service to public
Maharashtra won the Gold Award for health.
outstanding digital governance at the grassroots Details
level.  Instituted in 1973 by the Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare, the award recognizes excellence
Miss World 2025 among Registered Auxiliary Nurses & Midwives,
Context Registered Nurses and Midwives and Registered
 Opal SuchataChuangsri of Thailand has been Lady Visitors, employed across Central,
crowned Miss World 2025 in in Hyderabad, State/UTs and Voluntary Organizations. Each
 Page |7

recipient receives a Certificate of Merit, a cash Eighth Schedule of the Constitution or in English.
award of ₹1,00,000 and a medal. In a significant Posthumous awards are not given.
move to strengthen nursing education and  Initially awarded for an author's most outstanding
services, the Government of India has set up 157 work from 1965 to 1981, the first recipient was G.
nursing colleges and enacted the National Sankara Kurup in 1965 for Odakkuzhal
Nursing and Midwifery Commission (NNMC) (Malayalam). Since then, only works from the
Act, 2023, establishing the National Nursing and preceding 20 years are considered (excluding the
Midwifery Commission to regulate and enhance award year). The cash prize, originally modest,
the quality of nursing and midwifery education was raised to ₹1.5 lakh in 1981 and as of 2015,
across the country. stands at ₹11 lakh.
 The award includes a citation, a bronze Saraswati
International Booker Prize 2025 idol and a cash component. So far, 65 authors,
Context including 8 women, have been honoured.
 Banu Mushtaq made history by becoming the first Ashapoorna Devi was the first woman recipient
Kannada author to win the International Booker in 1976 for her Bengali novel Prothom Protishruti.
Prize 2025 for her short story collection Heart
Lamp, translated into English by Deepa Bhasthi. 2025 World Food Prize
Details Context
 A former journalist and now a lawyer, Banu  Mariangela Hungria, a renowned Brazilian
Mushtaq is also known for her association with the microbiologist, has been awarded the 2025 World
Bandaya Movement, advocating literature as a Food Prize for her pioneering work in biological
tool for social change. Heart Lamp reflects Banu's nitrogen fixation--a sustainable method that
own experiences and observations from enhances crop growth by naturally enriching soil
Karnataka, addressing themes like religious nitrogen, thereby reducing dependency on
orthodoxy, patriarchy and women's agency. chemical fertilizers. Her innovations have played a
 The International Booker Prize, formerly the Man transformative role in Brazil's agricultural
Booker International Prize, is a prestigious productivity and sustainability.
literary award based in the United Kingdom, Details
introduced in 2004 to complement the Booker  The World Food Prize, often referred to as the
Prize. Initially awarded biennially (2005–2015) to a "Nobel Prize for Food and Agriculture", was
living author for their entire body of work conceived by Nobel laureate Norman Borlaug
available in English, it celebrated sustained and established in 1986 with the support of
contributions to global fiction. However, since General Foods. It recognizes individuals who
2016, the format changed to an annual prize for a have improved the quality, quantity, or
single work of fiction or short stories translated availability of food worldwide, with
into English and published in the UK or Ireland. contributions ranging from soil science to policy
The £50,000 prize is equally shared between the and hunger alleviation. Since 1987, it has been
author and translator, highlighting the vital role of awarded annually by the World Food Prize
translation in global literature. Foundation, headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa,
where laureates are honored at the Iowa State
Jnanpith Award Capitol with a $500,000 prize, a diploma and a
Context commemorative sculpture by Saul Bass. The
 The 58th Jnanpith Award was conferred on Gulzar Foundation also conducts programs like the
and Rambhadracharya by President Droupadi Borlaug Symposium, Iowa Hunger Summit and
Murmu for their outstanding literary youth internships. After Borlaug, M.S.
contributions. Swaminathan became the first laureate and later
Details chaired the selection committee.
 The Jnanpith Award, instituted in 1961, is India‟s
highest literary honour, presented annually by the Pulitzer Prizes 2025
Bharatiya Jnanpith for an author‘s outstanding Context
contribution to literature. It is conferred only on  The Pulitzer Prizes 2025, among the most
Indian writers writing in languages listed in the prestigious global awards in journalism and the
 Page |8

arts, were announced by the Pulitzer Prize Board Kavitha Surana and team for exposing maternal
to honour excellence in impactful reporting and deaths linked to abortion laws.
storytelling.  The Pulitzer Prizes, established in 1917 through
Details the will of newspaper publisher Joseph Pulitzer,
 The New York Times led with four awards, are prestigious annual awards presented by
including Breaking News Photography for Doug Columbia University, New York, to recognize
Mills‘ iconic image of the Trump assassination excellence in journalism, literature, drama and
attempt. Other key winners include The music in the United States. There are 23 award
Washington Post for Breaking News Reporting, categories, including Public Service, Investigative
Reuters for its investigation “Fentanyl Express” and Reporting, Fiction, Poetry and Audio Reporting.
The Wall Street Journal for its deep dive into Elon Winners receive a certificate and $15,000, except in
Musk. The New Yorker won three awards--in the Public Service category, where a gold medal is
Commentary, Feature Photography and Audio awarded.
Reporting. The Public Service prize went to

Book Author and Details

India: 5000 Years of History Audrey Truschke: Highlights key empires, cultural shifts and contested
on the Subcontinent narratives shaping the subcontinent's identity.
Indira Gandhi and the Years TCA Srinivasa Raghavan. Published on May 23, 2025, the book explores the
that Transformed India power struggle among the executive, legislature and judiciary during Indira
Gandhi‘s Emergency rule (1975–1977).
PMO Through the Ages Himanshu Roy

BOOK AUTHOR
The Wonder That Was India A. L. Basham
Whole Numbers and Half Truths Rukmini S.
The Struggle for India‘s Soul Shashi Tharoor
The Problem of the Rupee: Its Origin and Its Solution B. R. Ambedkar
Gita Rahasya Bal Gangadhar Tilak
Young India: An Interpretation and a History Lala Lajpat Rai
Prison Diary Jayaprakash Narayan
The Golden Threshold Sarojini Naidu
The Home and the World Rabindranath Tagore
Nationality and Empire Bipin Chandra Pal
Pilgrimage to Freedom K. M. Munshi

Global Ambassador for the Esports World the Global Ambassador for the Esports World
Cup 2025 (EWC) Cup 2025 (EWC) by the Esports World Cup
Context Foundation (EWCF)
 Cristiano Ronaldo, Portuguese footballer and five- Details
time Ballon d‘Or winner, has been officially named
 Page |9

 Esports World Cup (EWC) is the world‘s largest Awards. As of 2025, there are 122 inductees -- 85
annual esports event, held in Riyadh, Saudi from England, Australia and West Indies and 37
Arabia (July–August), organized by the Esports from other Test nations. Notably, in 2025, MS
World Cup Foundation. Launched in 2024 as a Dhoni, Graeme Smith and Daniel Vettori -- all
successor to Gamers8, it features 25+ games and a 2011 World Cup captains -- were inducted. There
$70 million+ prize pool (2025). Key features are 15 women inductees, with Rachael Heyhoe
include the Club Championship ($20 million) and Flint being the first (2010) and Sana Mir and
introduction of chess (ambassador: Magnus Sarah Taylor inducted in 2025.
Carlsen). Founded by Crown Prince Mohammed
bin Salman in 2023, EWC faces criticism as a Sonneborne-Berger tiebreak system
sportswashing tool amid Saudi Arabia‘s human Context
rights concerns.  Indian GM Aravindh Chithambaram clinched
victory at the 6th Stepan Avagyan Memorial
Wimbledon chess tournament held in Jermuk, Armenia,
Context scoring 6.5 points in 9 rounds.
 Wimbledon 2025 has announced a record prize Details
pool of £53.5 million (~$73 million), with £3  He tied with R. Praggnanandhaa, but won on the
million (~$4 million) each for men‘s and women‘s Sonneborne-Berger tiebreak system, which
singles champions--an 11.1% increase from 2024. evaluates the strength of opponents beaten.
Details Aravindh remained unbeaten with 4 wins and 5
 Wimbledon is the oldest and most prestigious draws, defeating Aram Hakobyan in the final
tennis tournament in the world, held annually round. This adds to his stellar 2025, having also
since 1877 in Wimbledon, London, on outdoor won the Prague Chess Festival Masters earlier.
grass courts. Organized by the All England Club The tournament continues to grow as a significant
with the Lawn Tennis Association, it is the third fixture in the global chess calendar.
Grand Slam of the year, following the Australian  The Sonneborn–Berger score, also known as the
Open and French Open. The 2025 edition (June 30 Neustadtl score, is a widely used chess tiebreak
– July 13) will be the first to use only electronic system, especially in Round Robin tournaments.
line-calling, ending the use of human line judges It is calculated by adding the scores of defeated
in its 147-year history. opponents and half the scores of drawn
opponents, rewarding strong performances
ICC Hall of Fame against higher-ranked players. Originally
Context proposed by Hermann Neustadtl in 1882, it differs
 MS Dhoni, former India captain and the only from earlier variants by Oscar Gelbfuhs and the
skipper to win all three ICC white-ball trophies, non-Neustadtl version supported by Sonneborn
was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2025, and Berger.
becoming the 11th Indian cricketer to receive this
honour. Norway Chess
Details Context
 Dhoni led India to the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011  Magnus Carlsen clinched his seventh Norway
ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy. Chess title in 2025 after a dramatic final round in
Over his 16-year career, he played 350 ODIs, Stavanger, drawing against Arjun Erigaisi to edge
scoring 10,773 runs and 90 Tests, amassing 4,876 out Fabiano Caruana and D Gukesh.
runs, while excelling as a wicketkeeper. The 2025 Details
Hall of Fame class also included legends like  Norway Chess is a prestigious annual closed chess
Matthew Hayden, Daniel Vettori, Hashim Amla, tournament held typically between May and June
Graeme Smith, Sana Mir and Sarah Taylor. in Stavanger, Norway. It began in 2013 with ten
 The ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, launched in 2009, top players, including seven of the world‘s
honours cricket legends from the sport‘s long highest-rated grandmasters and was won by
history. It started with 55 FICA inductees, ranging Sergey Karjakin, with Magnus Carlsen and
from W.G. Grace to Graham Gooch. New Hikaru Nakamura sharing second place. In 2015,
members are added annually during the ICC Norway Chess joined the inaugural Grand Chess
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Tour but later withdrew to maintain its over by the Princess of Asturias. Winners receive
independent status as a premier event. a Joan Miró sculpture, a diploma, a foundation
pin and a €50,000 prize. In 2004, UNESCO
2025 Asian Athletics Championships recognized the awards as an "exceptional
Context contribution to the cultural heritage of
 India secured a strong second place at the 2025 Humanity".
Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South
Korea, with a total of 24 medals--8 gold, 10 silver Nottwil World Para Athletics Grand Prix
and 6 bronze. Context
Details  India‟s Mahendra Gurjar set a world record in the
 The World Athletics Championships--formerly men‟s javelin F42 category at the Nottwil World
the IAAF World Championships in Athletics Para Athletics Grand Prix in Switzerland with a
until 2019--are the premier biennial global throw of 61.17m, surpassing the previous 2022
competition for outdoor track and field athletics, record of 59.19m.
organized by World Athletics. Established Details
officially in 1983 in Helsinki, the championships  He also clinched gold in long jump T42 with a
arose after the IOC removed the men's 50 km walk 5.59m leap, marking his first event in that category
from the 1976 Olympics, prompting the IAAF to and earning him the top Asia ranking.
hold separate world events starting in 1976.  Nottwil World Para Athletics Grand Prix 2025
Initially held every four years, the championships was held in Nottwil, Switzerland, from May 23–
switched to a two-year cycle from 1991 onward. In 25, with classifications from May 20–22. The
2024, World Athletics announced the World event featured 254 para-athletes from 40 countries
Athletics Ultimate Championship, a new elite competing in various track and field events.
biennial event starting 2026 featuring only the top
16 athletes per discipline. First Indian to Win Formula 2 Race
Context
Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025  Kush Maini made Indian motorsport history by
Context winning the Formula 2 Sprint Race at the Monaco
 Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally Grand Prix, becoming the first Indian to achieve
clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025. this feat.
Details Details
 They defeated Punjab Kings by 6 runs in a  The Monaco Grand Prix, held annually on the
thrilling final at Ahmedabad‘s Narendra Modi Circuit de Monaco since 1929, is considered one of
Stadium. the most prestigious Formula One races in the
world. Alongside the Indianapolis 500 and the 24
Princess of Asturias Award for Sports 2025 Hours of Le Mans, it forms the Triple Crown of
Context Motorsport.
 Serena Williams, the legendary tennis icon, has
been conferred the Princess of Asturias Award for Miao Lijie Named Ambassador for FIBA
Sports 2025 Women‟s Asia Cup 2025
Details Context
 The award celebrates Serena‘s dual legacy--her  Chinese basketball legend Miao Lijie has been
dominance on the court with 23 Grand Slam appointed as the ambassador for the upcoming
singles titles and 73 overall and her voice for FIBA Women‟s Asia Cup 2025, set to take place in
gender and racial equity off the court. Shenzhen, China, from July 13 to 20, 2025.
 The Princess of Asturias Awards are prestigious Details
international honours awarded annually by the  FIBA Women‟s Asia Cup is a biennial
Princess of Asturias Foundation in Spain to international basketball tournament for women‟s
individuals and institutions for outstanding national teams from FIBA Asia and, since 2017,
achievements in sciences, humanities, public FIBA Oceania. Originally known as the Asian
affairs and more. Held in October at Teatro Basketball Confederation (ABC) Championship
Campoamor, Oviedo, the ceremony is presided until 2001 and later the FIBA Asia Women‟s
 P a g e | 11

Championship until 2015, the tournament for global events like the FIBA Women‟s World
showcases the top women‘s basketball talent from Cup and the Olympics.
across Asia and Oceania, serving as a key qualifier

Date Day/Event
May
1 May International Labour Day / May Day, Maharashtra Day, Gujarat Day
2 May World Tuna Day
3 May World Press Freedom Day
4 May World Portuguese Language Day
6 May International No Diet Day, World Asthma Day (First Tuesday)
7 May World Athletics Day
8 May World Red Cross Day, World Thalassaemia Day
9 May Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti, Maharana Pratap Jayanti
10 May World Lupus Day
11 May National Technology Day, Mother‘s Day (Second Sunday)
12 May International Nurses Day, Buddha Purnima (Buddha Jayanti)
15 May International Day of Families
16 May National Dengue Day, International Day of Light, National Endangered Species Day (Third
Friday)
17 May World Telecommunication Day, World Hypertension Day, Armed Forces Day (Third Saturday)
18 May World AIDS Vaccine Day (HIV Vaccine Awareness Day), International Museum Day
20 May International HR Day
21 May National Anti-Terrorism Day, International Tea Day
22 May International Day for Biological Diversity
23 May World Turtle Day
24 May National Brother‘s Day
25 May Africa Day
26 May National Memorial Day (Last Monday of May)
30 May International Day of Potato, Goa Statehood Day, Hindi Journalism Day
31 May World No Tobacco Day (Anti-Tobacco Day)
June
1 June World Milk Day, Global Day of Parents
2 June International Sex Workers‘ Day, Telangana Formation Day
3 June World Bicycle Day
4 June International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression
5 June World Environment Day
7 June World Food Safety Day
8 June World Oceans Day, World Brain Tumour Day
12 June World Day Against Child Labour
14 June World Blood Donor Day
15 June Father‘s Day, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
P a g e | 12
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Subarnarekha River  Pollution due to mining of copper and uranium in

Context Jharkhand.
 In July 2025, Subarnarekha River caused floods in  Industrial effluents (e.g., from Muri aluminium
Balasore district, Odisha. plant) threaten tribal livelihoods.
 Though the water level receded below the danger
mark (9.17m at Rajghat vs danger level 10.36m), Simplipal National Park
over 15 panchayats and 30 villages in Bhograi Context
block remained marooned.  Zeenat, a Royal Bengal Tigress translocated to
 Crops destroyed, roads submerged and IMD Similipal Tiger Reserve, is expected to give birth
warned of further rainfall, escalating by September 2025 after mating with a melanistic
vulnerability. tiger. This marks a significant step in tiger
Subarnarekha River conservation and genetic diversification in India.
 Length: 395 km Basic Details
 Basin Area: 18,951 sq. km  Located in Mayurbhanj district, Odisha,
 States Covered: Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha Similipal spans 2,750 sq. km. It is part of the
 Mouth: Bay of Bengal at Kirtania, Odisha Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve, which also
 Source: Piska/Nagri near Ranchi, Chota Nagpur includes Hadgarh and Kuldiha Wildlife
Plateau Sanctuaries.
Course of the River  It was declared as:
 Originates near Ranchi (Jharkhand) o Tiger Reserve in 1973
 Flows through: Ranchi → Jamshedpur → Paschim o Wildlife Sanctuary in 1979
Medinipur (WB) → Balasore (Odisha) o National Park in 1980
 Empties into Bay of Bengal near Talsari, Balasore o Biosphere Reserve in 1994
Major Tributaries o UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2009
 Left: Dulang River Geography
 Right: Kharkai, Kanchi, Karkari, Raru, Garru  Located in the Eastern Ghats, with an average
Rivers. elevation of 900 m.
 Confluence: Kharkai meets Subarnarekha at  Important peaks: Khairiburu (1178 m) and
Sonari, Jamshedpur. Meghasani (1158 m)
Flood-Prone Areas in Odisha  Major rivers: Budhabalanga, Kharkai, Palpala,
 Coastal Odisha, especially: Deo
o Jaleswar  Waterfalls: Barehipani (217 m) and Joranda (181
o Bhograi m)
o Baliapal Climate and Vegetation
 Historic flood years: 1997, 2007, 2009, 2025  Tropical moist deciduous forest dominated by
 Noted for flash floods due to heavy upstream sal, along with orchids and medicinal plants.
rainfall.  Temperature: Up to 40°C in summer and around
Major Projects 14°C in winter.
 Chandil Dam (Jharkhand): Multi-purpose  Prone to cerebral malaria and forest fires.
reservoir, 1971 Wildlife
 Galudih Barrage (Jharkhand-Odisha border)  Home to 42 species of mammals, 242 species of
 Icha Dam (Kharkai river) birds and 30 species of reptiles.
 Subarnarekha Multipurpose Project: Irrigation,  Flagship species: Bengal tiger, Asian elephant,
power, water supply. gaur, chausingha
 Kirtania Port Project: Deep-sea port at  Other fauna: Peafowl, hornbills, junglefowl,
Subarnarekha mouth, Odisha. Mugger crocodile (under a 1979 conservation
Hundru Falls scheme)
 Located in Jharkhand. Conservation and Relocation
 Falls from 98 metres.  Villages like Jamunagarh and Barhakamuda were
 Formed on Subarnarekha river -- a major tourist relocated, resulting in increased tiger sightings.
spot.
Environmental Concerns
 P a g e | 14

 However, there are concerns about forced  The river is the lifeline for Kalahandi,
relocations and unresolved claims under the Nabarangpur and Bastar districts.
Forest Rights Act.
Recent Issues Machkund Dam
 The 2021 forest fires caused major ecological Context
damage and wildlife displacement.  Due to incessant rainfall in Koraput, Machkund
 Similipal remains vulnerable to fires, disease Dam neared capacity, prompting the opening of
outbreaks and climate-related threats. two sluice gates--marking the first floodwater
inflow of the 2025 monsoon.
Indravati River Location and River System
Context  Jalaput Dam is located on the Sileru River, also
 Over 15 passengers were rescued after their boat known as Machkund River.
tilted and drifted in the Indravati River near  The Sileru is a tributary of the Sabari River,
Dashamantpur, Koraput. The incident highlights which in turn joins the Godavari River.
the risks of monsoon travel in interior river zones.  It originates from the Mudugal hills in Andhra
Origin and Course Pradesh and forms a natural boundary with
 The Indravati River originates in the Odisha.
Dandakaranya range near Mardiguda, Thuamul Technical Overview
Rampur, Kalahandi, Odisha, at an elevation of 914  Built in 1955, Jalaput Dam supports the
m. Machkund Hydro-Electric Scheme (MHES).
 It flows westward through Kalahandi,  The dam impounds 34.27 TMC of water for 120
Nabarangpur and Koraput, before forming the MW power generation.
Odisha–Chhattisgarh border, then enters Bastar  Power is supplied to towns in Odisha (Koraput,
in Chhattisgarh. Jeypore) and Andhra Pradesh (Visakhapatnam,
 It joins the Godavari River near Somnoor Vijayawada).
Sangam, Gadchiroli, Maharashtra.  It is a joint project between Odisha and Andhra
o Total length: 535 km Pradesh.
o Basin area: 40,625 sq. km Geographical Features
States Covered  The river runs 48 km north through the Padwa
 Flows through Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Valley before plunging at Duduma Falls.
Maharashtra and Telangana.  Jalaput, earlier known as Tentaput, is a border
Tributaries village between Odisha (Koraput) and Andhra
 Right-bank: Bhaskel, Narangi, Kotri, Bandia, Pradesh (Alluri Sitharama Raju district).
Nimbra  A bridge links both states: LF (Andhra side) and
 Left-bank: Nandiraj RF (Odisha side).
 Other minor tributaries include Jaura, Muran,
Telengi and Kora rivers. Odisha Real Estate Regulatory Authority
Indravati Dam and Hydropower (ORERA) Reforms
 Upper Indravati Hydropower Project: Near Context
Mukhiguda, Kalahandi, Odisha.  In a move to strengthen the implementation of the
 Generates 600 MW, one of the largest hydro Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act,
projects in Eastern India. 2016 (RERA) in Odisha, the state government has
 Diverts water into the Mahanadi basin for introduced key reforms to enhance transparency,
irrigation and power. inter-departmental coordination and
 Other proposed projects like Kutru I & II, Nugur I enforcement in the real estate sector.
& II and Bhopalpatnam were scrapped due to About ORERA
ecological concerns.  The Odisha Real Estate Regulatory Authority
Environmental Significance (ORERA) was established on 7th October 2017
 Chitrakoot Falls (near Jagdalpur) lie on Indravati under Section 30 of the RERA Act, 2016, which
but are declining due to check dam construction. came into force on 1st May 2017.
 Indravati National Park and Tiger Reserve are  ORERA serves as a quasi-judicial regulatory body
located in Chhattisgarh. to promote and regulate the real estate sector.
 P a g e | 15

 Its primary focus is on protecting consumer  Regular review meetings between ORERA and
interests and ensuring transparency in real estate H&UD to address complaints in a time-bound
dealings. manner.
Key Provisions of the Act Significance
 Mandatory registration of all real estate projects  These reforms represent a paradigm shift in
before any advertisement or sale. Odisha‘s real estate governance, ensuring greater
o The Government of Odisha has banned sale accountability, consumer protection and a more
deed registration if the project is not transparent ecosystem for buyers and developers
registered with ORERA. alike.
 Public disclosure of all project details: approved
building plans, layout, land status and Propylene Gas
encumbrances. Context
 Regulation of financial transactions related to  A propylene gas tanker leak near the Odisha–
each project. Jharkhand border disrupted traffic on NH-49,
 Consumer redressal for non-delivery of promised triggering the evacuation of the area within a 2-km
amenities. radius.
 Compensation provisions for loss suffered by What is Propylene?
allottees or promoters due to non-compliance.  Propylene, also known as propene, is a colorless,
Recent State-Level Reforms flammable gas with a faint petroleum-like odor. It
 Real-time notification of project approvals to is a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula
ORERA by all planning and development CH₃CH=CH₂, containing a double bond, making
authorities under H&UD. it part of the alkene family.
 Development of a digital protocol for seamless  Naturally occurs in forest fires, vehicle exhaust
data exchange. and cigarette smoke.
 Integration of ORERA 2.0 with Bhulekh and  It is the second most important raw material in
SUJOG portals for cross-verification and data the petrochemical industry after ethylene.
transparency. Production Methods
Enforcement Mechanism Strengthened  Steam Cracking: Main method using naphtha or
 Coordination with Revenue & Disaster propane. Produces about 15% propylene.
Management Department to enforce orders and  Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC): Uses gas oils
recover penalties under the Orissa Public under high temperature and pressure. Produces
Demands Recovery Act, 1962. 20–25% propylene.
 Support from BDA/BMC for field enforcement.  Propane Dehydrogenation: ―On-purpose‖
 Launch of a monthly enforcement calendar. method using catalysts like platinum, chromia, or
Monitoring and Oversight vanadium.
 Institutionalisation of monthly coordination  Methanol-to-Olefins (MTO): Converts methanol
meetings between ORERA, Housing and Urban from syngas into ethylene and propylene.
Development Department, Odisha and Revenue  Olefin Metathesis: Uses rhenium or
Departments. molybdenum catalysts to interconvert olefins.
 Collectors and tehsildars now report illegal real Uses of Propylene
estate activities to ORERA.  Over 60% used to produce polypropylene, found
 RERA implementation included in district in:
collector review meetings. o Packaging films, fibers, containers and bottle
Institutional Capacity Building caps.
 Priority filling of key ORERA posts like Joint  Precursor to:
Secretary (Admin) and Deputy Secretary o Propylene oxide, acrylonitrile, cumene,
(Enforcement). acrylic acid and isopropyl alcohol.
 ORERA empowered to recruit retired government  Used in oxy-fuel welding, brazing and metal
officials via open advertisements. cutting.
Grievance Redressal  Key component in the cumene process, producing
acetone and phenol.
Industrial Importance
 P a g e | 16

 Global processing volume (2013): approx. 85  Researchers from NIT Rourkela, in collaboration
million tonnes. with UAE University and Sun Yat-sen University
 Production has grown in East Asia, particularly (China), have made a significant breakthrough in
China and Singapore. understanding Martian weather.
 Research continues into low-temperature  Their findings were published in the prestigious
oxidative dehydrogenation for cleaner journal New Astronomy Reviews.
production. Details
 The study, led by Prof. Jagabandhu Panda and
Odisha bans Refined Sugar, restricts Salt in research scholar Anirban Mandal, focuses on how
School Meals dust devils, large dust storms and water-ice
Context clouds shape Mars' atmospheric dynamics.
 The Odisha government has taken a landmark Key Findings
decision to ban refined sugar and limit salt intake  Dust Devils: Small, spinning columns of air more
in meals served under the PM POSHAN scheme frequent in northern Mars, which lift fine dust into
and Sishu Vatika initiative across schools and the atmosphere.
Anganwadi centres.  Large Dust Storms: Triggered by heat-dust
Details feedback loops, these storms can encircle the
 This step aligns with recommendations from the planet, changing wind and temperature patterns.
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and  Water-Ice Clouds: Appear seasonally over regions
the Ministry of Women and Child Development, like Olympus Mons and the poles. Two types
aiming to curb discretionary calorie intake and observed--aphelion cloud belts and polar hood
promote child nutrition. clouds--vary by dust and ice content.
 If sweeteners are required, only jaggery is allowed Why It Matters
and must not exceed 5% of the total energy  This research improves weather prediction
content. models for Mars--vital for robotic landings,
Additional Guidelines human missions and studying habitability. It
 Salt use has been restricted. uses data from global missions, including ISRO‟s
 HFSS foods (high-fat, sugar, salt) are discouraged. Mars Orbiter Mission (MoM).
 Compliance with Food Safety and Standards  Mars weather research is crucial for sustaining
Regulations (FSSR), 2011 & 2020 is mandatory. future human exploration and urged greater
 Artificial preservatives, colours and synthetic involvement of Indian space agencies and
additives are banned in Sishu Vatika meals. universities.
 Only FSSR 2020-approved emulsifiers are
allowed. 97th Death Anniversary of Utkalmani-
Ban on Energy Drinks Near Schools gopabandhu Das observed
 To address health risks from excess caffeine, the Context
sale of energy drinks is banned:  A tribute ceremony was held on June 26, 2025, at
o Within 100 meters of schools in rural areas the Odisha Legislative Assembly premises,
o Within 50 meters in urban areas commemorating the 97th death anniversary of
 Multiple studies have linked such drinks to UtkalmaniGopabandhu Das.
cardiovascular, neurological and metabolic Legacy of Gopabandhu Das
disorders in children.  Born in 1877, passed away in 1928.
Significance  Honoured with the title "Utkalamani" (Jewel of
 This is a major policy intervention aimed at Utkal).
promoting lifelong healthy eating habits and  Founder of the Samaja newspaper—a pioneer in
preventing lifestyle diseases among Odisha‘s journalism, education and social justice.
schoolchildren.  Championed press freedom, rural upliftment and
nationalism during British rule.
NIT Rourkela's Mars Weather Research  Inspired generations with his service-oriented
gains Global Recognition philosophy rooted in truth, sacrifice and
Context patriotism.
 P a g e | 17

Odisha–Adani Group Deal for Gopalpur  Accelerated rollout of charging infrastructure in

Port Expansion urban and semi-urban areas to address range
Context anxiety.
 The Odisha Government signed a Rs 16,554 crore  Push for a balanced approach—boosting both
Concession Agreement with the Adani Group for supply (manufacturing) and demand
the expansion of Gopalpur Port, in a major boost (incentives).
to the state‘s maritime infrastructure.  Alignment with the PM e-DRIVE Scheme for
About Gopalpur Port central support and financial assistance.
 Located near Brahmapur in Ganjam district, Vision 2036 & Broader Goals
Odisha.  Under Odisha Vision 2036, the state aims for 50%
 Operated by Gopalpur Ports Ltd (GPL); owned by adoption of Electric and Alternate Fuel Vehicles.
Adani Ports & SEZ (acquired 95% stake in March  The revised policy will be data-driven, based on
2024). learnings from EV Policy 2021 and inter-
 It is a natural deep-sea harbor with a maximum departmental coordination.
draft depth of 14.5 metres and can handle vessels
of over 100,000 DWT. Odisha launches e-Registration App for
 Officially opened for commercial operations on 23 Revenue Services
May 2013. Context
Infrastructure & Connectivity  In a major boost to digital governance, the Odisha
 Connected to NH-16 and Kolkata–Chennai Government has launched the „e-Registration‟
railway line. mobile app, enabling citizens to access all
 6 km NH-59 link road ensures swift cargo revenue-related services from their smartphones
movement. without visiting government offices.
 Rail connectivity is supported by a siding near Key Features of the App
Chhatrapur, built by K&R Rail Engineering.  The app offers a one-stop platform for:
Strategic Importance & Expansion Goals o Booking slots for property registration
 Expansion will boost capacity to 50 MMT per o Tracking booking status
annum, promoting exports in steel, minerals and o Applying for certified copies of documents
agro-based sectors. o Downloading land-related documents
 Will transform the port into a key logistics hub on o Checking government-assessed land values
India‘s eastern seaboard. o Locating nearest sub-registrar offices
 Expected to generate 5,000 jobs (direct + indirect) o Applying for inspection-based registration
and stimulate regional economic development. o Providing feedback on services
Benefits and Impact
Odisha set to unveil EV Policy 2.0  No physical visits to revenue offices
Context  Faster, transparent and corruption-free
 In a major step toward clean and sustainable processing
mobility, the Odisha Government is revising its  Especially helpful for the elderly, working
Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy with a goal of professionals and people in remote areas
achieving 50% Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV)  Aligns with Odisha‘s e-governance and
registrations by 2036. As of June 20, 2025, EV transparency goals
registrations in the state stand at 8.71%, up from
just 1.16% in 2021. Bhubaneswar among India‟s Least
Highlights of Odisha EV Policy 2.0 (Proposed) Affordable Cities for Housing
 Extension of validity and enhancement of Context
purchase incentives for EV buyers.  As per a National Housing Board (NHB) analysis,
 Support for Charge Point Operators (CPOs) from Bhubaneswar ranks among India‟s least
the state budget on a first-come-first-served basis. affordable capital cities, where even the top 5% of
 Creation of a dedicated EV Fund by exploring urban earners in Odisha need over 50 years of
levies on ICE vehicles. savings to afford a standard 1,184 sq ft house.
Key Findings
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 Based on a 30.2% savings-to-GDP ratio, even Odisha rolls out Apprenticeship-Embedded

wealthy urban households find it unaffordable to Degree Programs (AEDPS)
buy homes in Bhubaneswar. Context
 The city joins metros like Mumbai (109 years) and  The Odisha Government has launched AEDPs for
Gurgaon (63 years) in unaffordability. the 2025–26 session to boost student
 In contrast, cities like Jaipur and Chandigarh offer employability by integrating on-job training with
home ownership in 15–20 years. academics.
Why So Unaffordable? Details
 Rising real estate prices in Bhubaneswar, often  Offered in 22 colleges and 2 universities,
breaching the ₹1 crore mark. including Rama Devi and Ravenshaw.
 Savings and income levels fail to keep pace with  6 industry-linked courses: B.Com (Logistics, BFSI,
the property market boom. Retail, HR, E-commerce) and B.Sc/BA (Food &
 Urban development is concentrated, leading to Hospitality).
limited land availability and infrastructure  Backed by UGC guidelines, with up to 50% of the
pressure. program as apprenticeships.
Government Response  Courses listed on the SAMS portal; classes start
 Odisha govt plans affordable housing units July 10.
priced between ₹15 lakh–₹50 lakh for LIG and
MIG families. PM Modi launches „Godabarish Mishra
 Areas identified under the „Greater Bhubaneswar‟ Adarsha Vidyalaya‟ Scheme in Odisha
expansion strategy. Context
 Implementation through the Town Planning  PM Modi, alongside CM Mohan Majhi, launched
Scheme (TPS) and Bhubaneswar Development the Godabarish Mishra Adarsha Prathamika
Authority (BDA). Vidyalaya initiative to set up model primary
Significance schools in all 6,794 Gram Panchayats of Odisha.
 This housing crisis marks a paradigm shift in Details
Bhubaneswar‘s identity—from a once affordable  Named after educationist Pandit Godabarish
and liveable city to an urban housing pressure Mishra, the scheme aligns with NEP 2020 and
point, demanding urgent intervention for RTE Act 2009, focusing on:
inclusive development. o Foundational literacy & numeracy
o Smart classrooms, libraries, labs, playgrounds
Odisha to revise DPR for Tara Tarini o Revival of 45–51 century-old heritage schools
Temple o Equity in education for rural and
Context marginalized communities
 The Odisha government will prepare a revised o The initiative blends modern infrastructure
Detailed Project Report (DPR) for developing the with Odisha‘s cultural legacy, aiming to
Tara Tarini Temple. bridge the rural-urban divide and strengthen
Tara Tarini Temple public education under the NIPUN mission.
 The temple is a key Shakti Peetha on Kumari
Hills, near the Rushikulya River in Ganjam Odisha‟s „Tarakasi‟ shines Globally as PN
district, about 28 km from Brahmapur. Modi gifts Silver Clutch at G7
Religious Significance Context
 Believed to be where Maa Sati‟s breasts fell.  At the 2025 G7 Summit in Canada, PM Narendra
 One of the four Adi Shakti Peethas, alongside Modi gifted a Silver Filigree Clutch from Cuttack
Kamakhya, Vimala and Kalighat. to Canadian Governor General Mary Simon,
 The sanctum houses stone idols, brass heads and spotlighting Odisha‘s famed Tarakasi craft on the
a Buddha idol. global stage.
Major Festivals Details
 Chaitra Jatra: Celebrated on Tuesdays in Chaitra  Known as the „Silver City of India‟, Cuttack has
with mundan rituals and KhechidiBhoga. preserved this 500-year-old art form, where
 Sankranti Mela: Held monthly; offerings made to artisans handcraft 99% pure silver wires into
Bije Pratima outside the sanctum. intricate, lace-like designs.
 P a g e | 19

 Awarded the GI tag in 2012, Tarakasi blends and Basi Raja--it‘s especially cherished by children
influences from Mughal architecture and temple and adolescents.
art, supporting over 1,500 livelihoods today.
Raja Parba
 Each Tarakasi piece is handcrafted through an Raja Parba, also known as Mithuna Sankranti, is a
elaborate process involving melting, wire vibrant three-day festival of womanhood and
drawing, soldering and shaping-- often requiring fertility celebrated across Odisha in mid-June.
a team of artisans. Rooted in the belief that Mother Earth (Bhudevi)
 The gesture not only promoted India‟s cultural undergoes menstruation during this time, the
heritage but also served as a symbolic bridge in festival honours her with rituals like swinging
diplomacy amidst strained Indo-Canada ties. (doli), rest from work and adorning in new attire.
Unmarried girls enjoy Poda Pitha, avoid barefoot
Pattachitra from Odisha gains Global walking and salt and partake in folk songs and
Spotlight as PN Modi Gifts Artwork in swings, symbolising readiness for future
Croatia motherhood. The fourth day, Basumati Snana,
Context marks Bhumi's ceremonial bath. The festival blends
 Odisha‟s iconic Pattachitra art, earned global agricultural reverence, feminine celebration and
cultural joy, reflecting Odisha's deep-rooted
recognition once again when Prime Minister
traditions and the arrival of the monsoon season.
Narendra Modi gifted a Pattachitra painting to
Croatian President Zoran Milanović during his
2025 state visit. How Raja Boosts Child Development:
Pattachitra 1. Swinging (Jhula): Enhances motor skills, balance
 Deeply Rooted in Jagannath Culture, Pattachitra and emotional well-being. Fosters peer bonding
(from patta meaning cloth and chitra meaning and joy.
picture) is among India‘s oldest art traditions. 2. Traditional Foods (Poda Pitha): Nourishes with
Originating over a thousand years ago, it was nutritious ingredients like rice, jaggery and
historically used in Puri‟s Jagannath Temple coconut. Encourages cultural learning through
during the Anasara period when painted forms of cooking.
the deities substitute for idols. Common themes 3. Play & Leisure: Outdoor and traditional games
include the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Krishna develop problem-solving and physical fitness,
Leela. offering a break from routine stress.
 Raghurajpur, a heritage village in Puri, remains 4. Folk Songs & Storytelling: Boosts language
the epicentre of this art, where families of skills, cultural pride and community connection.
chitrakars handcraft paintings using natural 5. Dress & Grooming: Wearing new clothes and
colours--hingula (red), haritala (yellow), lamp soot using alta uplifts self-esteem and teaches
(black), conch shell (white) and indigo (blue) - on grooming and aesthetics.
treated cloth or palm leaves. Each piece is finished Broader Impacts:
with a lacquer coating for durability and gloss.  Physical Health: Active play and movement
 Pattachitra paintings from both Odisha and West  Mental Well-being: Joyful break from routine
Bengal have been granted Geographical Indication  Social Bonds: Family and peer interaction
(GI) tags, signifying their unique cultural and  Cultural Identity: Connection with tradition
artistic significance. The GI tag for Odisha's  Emotional Growth: Participation in shared
Pattachitra is registered as "Orissa Pattachitra", celebrations
while West Bengal's is registered as "Bengal Conclusion
Patachitra".  Raja is more than a festival--it‘s a natural, holistic
development model. It offers today‘s children a
Raja Festival in Odisha: Cultural Joys & joyful escape from screen time and academic
Child Development pressures, nurturing their body, mind and soul
Context through tradition.
 Raja Festival, celebrated across Odisha,
honorswomanhood, fertility and Mother Earth, Contaminated Water behind Diarrhoea,
marking the start of the agricultural season. Cholera Outbreaks in Odisha
Spanning three days--Pahili Raja, Raja Sankranti Context
 P a g e | 20

 A Central health team visiting Odisha confirmed KNOWLEDGE BOX

that contaminated water is the primary cause of  A recent report by the Central Groundwater
the diarrhoea and cholera outbreaks across the Board has revealed dangerously high levels of
state. fluoride contamination in several blocks of
Details Odisha‟s Mayurbhanj district, posing a serious
 Lab tests confirmed E. coli contamination in 10 out public health challenge. The worst affected is
of first-phase water samples and 16 of 37 faecal Kaptipada block, where fluoride levels have
samples tested positive for Vibrio cholerae. reached 20.3 mg per litre—far above the
 The Central team also held meetings with officials permissible limit of 1.5 mg/l. Thakurmunda,
from the Health, PR&DW and Housing & Urban Raruan and Baripada blocks have also reported
Development (H&UD) departments to address elevated levels ranging from 2.5 to 15 mg/l.
the crisis and ensure safe drinking water supply.  Prolonged consumption of this contaminated
 Meanwhile, in Bhubaneswar, stagnant water and water has led to severe health problems among
garbage at Baramunda old bus depot raise further residents, including bone degradation, dental
concerns about urban sanitation amid the fluorosis, fractures and joint issues, even
outbreak. among younger individuals. Estimates suggest
that over 3,500 people across the district have
been severely affected.

ODISHA RELATED GK
PROTECTED AREAS IN ODISHA
National Parks in Odisha  Fauna: 160+ migratory bird species, fish, crabs,
Simlipal National Park marine weeds
 Location: Mayurbhanj district
 Area: 2,750 sq km Gahirmatha Marine Wildlife Sanctuary
 Features: Sal trees, Joranda&Barehipani waterfalls,  Location: Coastal Odisha
red silk cotton trees  Known for: World‘s largest nesting beach for
 Fauna: Bengal tiger, elephant, chausingha, gaur Olive Ridley Turtles
 Status: Tiger Reserve  Special: Only marine sanctuary in Odisha

Bhitarkanika National Park Elephant Sanctuaries & Corridors

 Location:Kendrapara district Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
 Area: 145 sq km  Location: South of Cuttack
 Features: Second largest mangrove forest in India  Area: 193.39 sq km
 Fauna: Saltwater crocodile, 215+ bird species,  Known as: Chandaka Elephant Reserve
migratory birds from Central Asia & Europe  Vegetation: Coastal Sal, bamboo, semi-evergreen
 Nickname: Amazon of India forests
 Fauna: Elephants, leopards, pangolin, civet, sloth
Marine & Wetland Ecosystems bear, hyena
Chilika (Nalaban) Wildlife Sanctuary
 Districts: Puri, Khurda, Ganjam Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary
 Area: ~1,100 sq km  Area: 160 sq km
 Type: Brackish water lagoon  Part of: Sambalpur Elephant Reserve
 Status: Largest coastal lagoon in India & largest  Corridor:Khalsuni–Satkosia Elephant Corridor
brackish lagoon globally  Flora: Sal-dominated forests
 Features: Waterfalls and panoramic greenery
 P a g e | 21

Tiger Reserves and Proposed Tiger  Special: Watchtower at Garsimulia for elephant
Habitats sightings
 Fauna: Elephant, leopard, tiger, hornbill, hill myna
Satkosia Tiger Reserve
 Location: Angul district
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
 Area: 988.3 sq km (Core: 523.61 sq km)
 Location: Kalahandi district
 River: Mahanadi Gorge (22 km canyon)
 Area: 175 sq km
 Fauna: Tiger, elephant, leopard, sloth bear, dhole,
 Fauna: Green munia, tiger, great-eared nightjar,
crocodile, gharial
sambar
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary
Hadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
 Location:Nuapada district
 Location:Keonjhar district
 Area: 600 sq km
 Area: 191 sq km
 Status: Proposed tiger reserve
 Linked with:Similipal&Kuldiha
 Fauna: Tiger, gaur, leopard, sloth bear, barking
 Fauna: Leopard, jungle cat, hyena, langur
deer, blue bull

Balukhand Konark Wildlife Sanctuary

Major Wildlife Sanctuaries  Location: Between Puri & Konark
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary  Features: Casuarina trees, sandy dunes
 Location: Bargarh district
 Fauna: Blackbuck, deer, jackal, olive ridley turtles
 Area: 346.91 sq km
 Status: Eco-sensitive zone
 Biodiversity: 40 mammals, 200 birds, 85
Badrama (Ushakothi) Wildlife Sanctuary
butterflies, 42 fish species
 Location: Sambalpur district
 Area: 304.03 sq km
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary  Flora: Sal, sandalwood, neem, acacia
 Location: Kandhamal district
 Fauna: 15 tigers, 35 elephants, bison
 Area: 399.5 sq km
 Fauna: Elephant, gaur, peafowl, red jungle fowl
Other Sanctuaries
 Baisipalli
Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary  Lakhari Valley: 118 sq km, moist deciduous forest,
 Location: Balasore district
elephant habitat
 Area: 272.75 sq km
 Rushikulya Rookery: Known for Olive Ridley
nesting

SOME RIVERS IN ODISHA

Tel River Ib River
 The Tel River, the largest tributary of the  The Ib River is a tributary of the Mahanadi River,
Mahanadi, originates near the Amravati forest joining it at the Hirakud Dam in Odisha.
range in Nabarangpur district, close to the Originating near Pandrapet hills at an elevation of
Odisha–Chhattisgarh border. It flows through the 762 metres, it flows through Raigarh and Jashpur
districts of Nabarangpur, Kalahandi, Balangir, districts in Chhattisgarh and Jharsuguda and
Boudh and Sonepur, passing just 8 km from Sundargarh districts in Odisha. Covering a length
Titilagarh. It joins the Mahanadi at Sonepur of 252 km, it drains an area of 12,447 sq km, with a
(Subarnapur), creating a scenic confluence. watershed area of about 25,000 sq km in Jashpur.
 The Baidyanath Temple, famous for the  The Ib Valley is rich in coal and hosts the Ib
Kosaleshwar Shiva shrine, is located on the left Valley Coalfield, making it a major industrial
bank of the Tel River, adding religious zone under the Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd. The
significance to the region. river region also holds cultural and mythological
 P a g e | 22

significance, with several tribal settlements and 240 km upstream of Sonepur, where the Tel River
folklore associated with it. also merges. The drainage area of the Ong River is
approximately 5,128 sq km.
Ong River  Nearby rivers include the Tel Nadi (76 km),
 The Ong River is a tributary of the Mahanadi Gorkha Nadi (171 km), Subarnarekha (431 km),
River, originating at an elevation of 457 metres Godavari (485 km) and Manairu Vagu (508 km),
and flowing entirely through Odisha. It covers a indicating the Ong‘s position within a dense river
length of 204 km and joins the Mahanadi about network in eastern and central India.

NATURAL SPRINGS AND HOT SPRINGS IN ODISHA

Odisha is home to several mountain and hot springs, many of which are linked to major rivers and tributaries. These
springs are not only important hydrologically but also hold cultural, ecological and tourism significance.

Notable Natural Springs (linked to rivers):

 Chandikhole (Jajpur) – tributary of Mahanadi
 Barunei (Khurda) – tributary of Daya
 Narayani (Puri) – drains into Chilika Lake
 Nirmal Jhar (Ganjam) – drains into Chilika Lake
 Pradhanpat (Deogarh) – tributary of Brahmani
 Phurligharan (Bhawanipatna) – tributary of Indravati
 Khandadhar (Bonei) – tributary of Brahmani
 Nursinghanath (Bargarh) – tributary of Tel
 Harishankar (Balangir) – on Jira River, a tributary of Tel
 Gosinga Jhar (Kantilo) – on Kuaria Nala, tributary of Mahanadi
 Koiliharan (Jharsuguda) – tributary of Mahanadi
 Jharbada (Dhenkanal) – on Mankada River, a tributary of Brahmani

Notable Hot Springs:

 Atri (Khurda)
 Taptapani (Ganjam)
 Deulijhari (Athamallik, Angul)
These springs are often associated with religious shrines and serve as tourist attractions, especially Taptapani, Atri
and Harishankar.

KEY LAKES OF ODISHA

Chilika Lake is India‘s largest brackish water lagoon, Temple, built by the Eastern Ganga rulers, adds
located across the districts of Ganjam, Khurda and historical value.
Puri. Its area varies between 900 to 1165 sq km,
expanding during monsoon. Connected to the Bay of Kanjia Lake, situated within the Nandankanan
Bengal, it is a Ramsar site, famous for hosting over 30 Zoological Park near Bhubaneswar, covers 75
species of migratory birds and supporting rich hectares of lake area and 105 hectares of total wetland.
aquatic biodiversity. It is ecologically significant, supporting over 30 bird
species, along with diverse aquatic flora and fauna.
Anshupa Lake is a horseshoe-shaped freshwater However, urban expansion and waste dumping pose
oxbow lake located near Banki in Cuttack district, on serious environmental threats.
the left bank of the Mahanadi. Spanning 231 hectares,
it is nestled amid the Saranda Hills and surrounded by Sara Lake, located near Puri, is a freshwater lake fed
bamboo and mango groves. Designated as a Ramsar by four distributaries of the Mahanadi--Bhargavi,
wetland in 2021, it serves as a haven for migratory Kushabhadra, Mugei and Dhanua. It spans around 5
birds in winter. The nearby 14th-century TrutiaDeva
 P a g e | 23

km in length and 3 km in width and is important for it is replenished by Rushikulya river backwaters
local agriculture and ecology. during monsoons. It is emerging as a scenic spot with
growing eco-tourism potential.
Tampara Lake lies adjacent to Chatrapur town in
Ganjam district. Around 4 km long and 0.5 km wide,

SOME TEMPLES IN ODISHA

 Sri Lokanath Mandir: Situated near Jagannath Temple in Puri, it is a revered Shaiva shrine believed to be
established by Lord Rama. The linga here, originally called Laukanatha, has deep mythological roots.
 Alarnath Temple: Located in Brahmagiri, this Vishnu temple is visited especially during Anavasara, when Lord
Jagannath rests. It holds significance due to Chaitanya Mahaprabhu's association.
 Sakhigopal Temple: Known for the Krishna-Radha idols, this temple in Sakhigopal (near Puri) is famed for its
festival, Anla Navami.
 Ramachandi Temple: On the banks of the Kushabhadra river near Konark, it is considered a Shakti Pitha of Puri
and is older than the Sun Temple.
 Konark Sun Temple: Built by King Narasimhadeva I in 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an
architectural marvel symbolizing the chariot of the Sun God.
 Wooden Sun Temple (Biranchi Narayan Temple): Located in Buguda, Ganjam, this west-facing wooden temple
was built in 1790 and is a rare structure dedicated to the Sun God.

Lesser-Known Yet Culturally Rich Shrines:

 Kapilash Temple (Dhenkanal): Built by Narasimhadeva I for Sri Chandrasekhara.
 Khirachora Gopinath Temple (Remuna): Famous Vaishnav shrine associated with Madhavendra Puri.
 Kichakeswari Temple (Mayurbhanj): Located at Khiching, dedicated to a tribal form of the goddess.
 Baladevjew Temple (Kendrapara): A shrine for Balarama, built during Maratha rule.
 Ladubaba Temple (Nayagarh): Combines Vishnu-Shiva iconography and is located amidst other temples.
 Raghunathjew Temple (Odagaon): Famous for its gold kalasha and literary significance linked to poet Upendra
Bhanja.

SOME FREEDOM FIGHTERS OF ODISHA

Jayee Rajaguru Sarala Devi
 The first martyr of Odisha, Jayee Rajaguru led the  A fierce nationalist, Sarala Devi joined the Non-
1804 Khurda rebellion against the British on behalf Cooperation Movement in 1921. She became the
of minor king Mukunda Deva II. He was executed first woman MLA and speaker of Odisha and a
in 1805 by the British for his resistance. pioneer of women‘s empowerment and social
reform.
BuxiJagabandhu
 Leader of the 1817 Paika Rebellion, Samanta Madhaba Chandra Samantaray
BuxiJagabandhu rallied Kondhs and Paikas  In 1827, he led the Tapangagarh revolt by refusing
against British oppression. His guerrilla warfare to pay British taxes. Though eventually subdued,
continued till 1825, inspiring future revolts. his bravery earned respect and a pardon from the
British.
ChakhiKhuntia (Chandan Hajuri)
 A priest of Puri and a revolutionary during the Veer Surendra Sai
1857 revolt, he supported Rani Laxmibai and  A revolutionary from Sambalpur, he led a 37-year-
instigated sepoy unrest. Later, he devoted himself long rebellion against British denial of his rightful
to literature and spiritual pursuits in Puri. kingship. He endured over 36 years in prison and
remains a symbol of Odia resistance.
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Baji Rout Ramadevi Choudhury

 At just 12, Baji Rout became India‘s youngest  The first woman freedom fighter from Odisha, she
martyr by refusing to ferry British police across the led women in the Non-Cooperation and Salt
Brahmani river in 1938. He was shot dead for his Satyagraha Movements, faced multiple arrests
defiance. and worked for Harijan welfare.

Laxmi Panda Malati Choudhury

 The youngest Odia member of Netaji‟s INA, she  Nicknamed „Toofani‟ by Gandhi, she participated
joined the army in Burma to fight colonial rule. in the 1934 Padayatra, founded
She worked with key INA leaders and was BajirautChhatravas and was part of the
renamed ‗Indira‘ by Bose himself. Constituent Assembly, later supporting the
Bhoodan movement.

WOMEN IN ODISHA'S FREEDOM STRUGGLE

The Indian freedom struggle saw remarkable participation of women and Odisha was no exception. Inspired by
Mahatma Gandhi, many Odia women entered political life during the Non-Cooperation Movement and later played
key roles in the Civil Disobedience and Quit India Movements.

Parvati Giri – The Gandhi of Western Odisha

 Known as the Mother Teresa of Western Odisha, Parvati Giri embodied Gandhian ideals. She not only took part in
the freedom movement but also dedicated her life to social service, focusing on the upliftment of the poor,
education and village reconstruction.

Prabhavati Devi &Jambubati Devi

 These women leaders from Western Odisha made notable contributions through sacrifice and service. Their lives
were driven by ideals that transformed personal action into a moral revolution against British rule.

Sandi Sabara – The Forgotten Tribal Heroine

 Often left out of mainstream history, Sandi Sabara (renamed Santi Sabara by Rama Devi) was a tribal freedom
fighter from Kujendri near Rayagada. During the Quit India Movement, she led the struggle in the absence of
senior leaders like Biswanath Pattnaik.
 She worked tirelessly to promote khadi, prohibition, sanitation and cottage industries, thereby combining
nationalism with grassroots reform. Her efforts drew the attention of leaders like Rama Devi, Gopabandhu
Choudhury and Acharya Harihara.

Women Freedom Fighters of Western Odisha

 Though history often overlooks them, the women of Western Odisha---from Bargarh to Kalahandi and
Sundergarh--played a significant role in India‘s freedom movement. Inspired by Gandhiji, they organized
Satyagrahas, mobilized other women and upheld the spirit of nationalism.

Bargarh‟s Women Satyagrahis

 Bargarh, once a subdivision of Sambalpur, produced fearless women leaders like Parbati Giri, Jambubati Devi,
Gandharvi Devi, Ila Meher and Shreeyabati Devi. These women took active part in Gandhian movements,
organized protests, collected funds for Swaraj and advocated for workers‟ rights, social reforms and indigenous
industries.

Unsung Hero: Sandi Sabara

 Sandi Sabara, a tribal woman renamed Santi Sabara by Rama Devi, was a powerful freedom fighter from
Kujendri near Rayagada. During the Quit India Movement, she led the movement locally in the absence of
senior leaders and worked on rural upliftment---spreading khadi, sanitation, prohibition and awareness. Despite
her impact, she remains unrecognized in mainstream history.
 P a g e | 25

Prajamandala Movement in Odisha

 The Prajamandala Movement emerged in the 1920s to fight against feudal oppression in Odisha‘s 26 princely
states. People revolted against taxations like Rasad, Magan, Bethi and Begari, demanding civil liberties and
citizens' rights.

Ranpur Uprising and Bazalgette Murder (1939)

 In Ranpur, the movement turned violent. Under the leadership of Raghunath Mohanty and Dibakar Parida,
locals demanded forest rights, pond access and abolition of forced labour. On January 5, 1939, after the arrest of
leaders, a massive protest broke out. The British Political Agent Major Bazalgette was attacked and killed by the
agitated crowd. In retaliation, Raghunath Mohanty was hanged and Dibakar Parida deported to the Andamans.

MINERALS OF ODISHA
Bauxite in Odisha: Key Highlights
Odisha has the largest bauxite reserves in India,  Kendujhar District: Dholkata Pahar contains
primarily associated with the Eastern Ghat bauxite over metatholeiitic basalt--distinct from
Supergroup (Khondalites and Charnockites). These Eastern Ghat-type.
deposits are usually found as blanket cappings on  Sundargarh District: Deposits are found at Tantra,
plateau tops, making them suitable for open-cast Kodalia, Jaldihi and Kusumdihi; associated with
mining. manganiferous shales of the Nuamundi Group.

Major District-wise Bauxite Deposits

 Koraput District: Major deposits are located at
Panchpatmali, Pottangi, Maliparbat,
Kodingamali, Ballada, Hatimali, Chintamgundi, Geology & Reserve
etc. These are the richest and most exploited  Geological Association: Mostly with Khondalite
bauxite belts. and Charnockite groups; in some areas, associated
 Rayagada District: Sites include Baphilimali, with shales and phyllites.
Sijimali, Tikrimali, Pasangmali and  Total Reserve: Odisha has over 1810 million
Majhigaonmali. These areas have significant tonnes of bauxite with >40% Al₂O₃ and <0.5%
untapped potential. SiO₂--suitable for metallurgical use.
 Malkangiri District: Contains Korkanda,
Siktapalli and Korpalli reserves. Uses of Bauxite
 Kalahandi District: Major deposits include  Aluminium Industry – primary raw material
Karlapat, Niyamgiri, Lanjigarh and Pollingpadar.  Refractory Industry – high-grade bauxite for fire
 Kandhamal District: Known for deposits at bricks
Anamini Parbat, RukuniCuttack, Demoli and  Chemical Industry – alum and other compounds
Ushabali.  Petroleum Industry – as catalyst support material

Iron Ore in Odisha

Odisha is one of India‘s leading producers of iron ore,
with major reserves found in the Iron Ore Super
Group--a geological formation comprising banded Major District-wise Deposits
iron formations (BIF) and volcano-sedimentary rock  Kendujhar (Keonjhar) District: Richest belt with
piles. deposits at Roida-Bhadrasahi, Joda East,
Thakurani, Unchabali, Bolani, Guali, Malangtoli
Total Reserve and others. This region forms part of the famous
 Odisha has approximately 5153 million tonnes of Joda-Barbil mining belt.
iron ore reserves, making it one of the richest  Sundargarh District: Important sites include
states in iron content and supply in India. Barsuan, Kalta, Koira, Taldihi, Ganua,
 P a g e | 26

Badamgarh Pahar and Kurmitarpahar. These belts Uses of Iron Ore

support large-scale mining and steel industries.  Pig Iron and Sponge Iron production
 Mayurbhanj District: Historic iron ore zones such  Steel manufacturing (both integrated and
as Gorumahisani, Badampahar and Suleipat, secondary units)
where mining began during the colonial period.  Blast Furnace operations
 Jajpur District: Contains deposits at Daitari-  Production of ferro-alloys and other metallurgical
Tomka, contributing significantly to the state's products
mineral economy.

Chromite in Odisha
Odisha holds India‘s largest chromite reserves, mainly found in Jajpur, Kendujhar and Baleswar districts.
 Jajpur District: Chromite occurs in the Sukinda Ultramafic Complex, intruded into Precambrian metamorphic
rocks. It‘s one of the world's richest chromite belts, with 173.80 million tonnes of reserves containing 40–45%
Cr₂O₃.
 Kendujhar District: The Boula-Nuasahi Igneous Complex hosts significant chromite deposits.
 Baleswar District: Occurrence at Bhalukasuni.
 Uses: For chromium metal, ferroalloys (with iron, nickel, cobalt, etc.), chromium compounds and in the
refractory industry.

Manganese in Odisha
Odisha is a key contributor to India‘s manganese production, with major deposits in Kendujhar, Sundargarh,
Rayagada and Balangir.
 Kendujhar District: Deposits at Joda, Roida, Gurda, Jaribahal, etc., occur in the shale formations of the Iron Ore
Super Group in the Horse-shoe Synclinorium. Reserve: 119.81 million tonnes.
 Sundargarh District: Found in Gangpur Group of rocks, with sites like Orahari, Kolmong, Teheral, Kanthor-
Koira.
 Rayagada District: Deposits like Nishikhal, Anajori, Ambadola and others are associated with Eastern Ghats
Super Group--quartzites, khondalites, calcgneiss.
 Balangir District: Manganese occurs at Champasar, Rengali, Ucchabapali and other locations.
 Uses: Widely used in iron & steel, ferromanganese, dry cells and the chemical industry.

Copper in Odisha Gangpur Group. The reserve is 1.89 million

Odisha has limited but important copper reserves, tonnes, with 6.73% Pb and 51 ppm silver, though
located in Gajapati (Debagada) and Mayurbhanj the mine has been closed since 2001-02. Other
districts. minor occurrences are reported in Saintala
 Debagada District: Adash deposit is associated (Balangir), Kermeli (Baragarh), Sisakhal
with pyroxene granulite of the Eastern Ghats (Kalahandi) and Gangajal (Gajapati).
Super Group. Reserve: 3.09 million tonnes with
0.8% Cu cut-off grade. Mineral Sand along Odisha Coast
 Mayurbhanj District: Found at Kesarpur, within Odisha‘s coast, especially Ganjam and Puri districts,
sheared metabasics of the Proterozoic Eastern hosts vast mineral sand deposits formed by
Singhbhum Belt. weathering of Eastern Ghats rocks and
 Uses: Used in electrical wiring, automobile parts, transported by rivers and tidal forces. Important
semiconductors and copper alloys. sectors include Gopalpur, Chhatrapur, Prayagi,
Paikirapur and Brahmagiri. Total reserve: 226.24
Lead and Zinc in Odisha million tonnes.
The Sargipalli mines in Sundargarh district are These sands contain:
Odisha's major lead-zinc source, with minerals like  Ilmenite & Rutile (source of titanium),
galena, sphalerite, cerussite and malachite,  Zircon (used in ceramics, refractories),
hosted in garnetiferous biotite schist of the  Sillimanite (for high-temp refractories),
 P a g e | 27

 Garnet (abrasive), and Asbestos

 Monazite (contains rare earths, thorium, Occurs in Malkangiri at sites like MV-76,
uranium). Madatalguda, Billiguda, associated with granite–
amphibolite contact zones. Though reserves are
unestimated, asbestos is used in cement sheets, pipes,
brake linings, insulation, fireproof clothing.
Nickel in Odisha
The Sukinda Valley in Jajpur district is one of India‘s China Clay (Kaolin)
richest nickel laterite belts, found as overburden in Found in a wide belt from Mayurbhanj to Kendujhar,
chromite mines (e.g., Saruabil, Kaliapani, extending into Rayagada, Nawarangpur, Baragarh
Bhimtangar). With 174 million tonnes (≥0.5% Ni), this and Cuttack. Major sites include Joshipur,
region supports stainless steel, electroplating, coil Chanchbani, Unchheibera, Devdhara, Kudingmali.
making and electronics. Minor deposits also occur in Total reserve: 314 million tonnes. Widely used in
the Similipal Complex (Mayurbhanj). ceramics, paper, paint, textiles, rubber industries.

Platinum Group of Elements (PGE) Coal in Odisha

Found in the Baula-Nuasahi complex (Kendujhar) Odisha is a coal-rich state:
and parts of Jajpur, Baleswar and Dhenkanal  Talcher Coalfield (Angul–Dhenkanal) is the
districts. These are associated with ultramafic-mafic largest, with 65,226.86 million tonnes of non-
intrusions of the Singhbhum–Odisha Craton. coking coal in Lower Gondwana formations.
Platinum is used in auto-catalysts, jewellery,  Ib River Coalfield (Sambalpur–Jharsuguda) lies
electronics and dentistry. in the Raniganj Formation.
 Uneconomic coal also found in Athgarh, Gaisilat,
Tin (Cassiterite) Athmallick and Katrinjia basins.
Tin ore is found in Malkangiri district (e.g., Coal supports thermal power generation across the
Bijapadar, Durmaguda, Kurumpalli), associated with state and country.
pegmatites and quartz veins in metasediments of
Bengpal Group. Tin is used in cans, solder, chemicals Fire Clay
and alloys. Found in Cuttack (Talbasta, Ghantikhal), Khurda,
Angul, Baragarh, Jharsuguda districts. Often
associated with coalfields (e.g., Talcher, Ib River).
Reserve: 175.53 million tonnes. Used in refractory
bricks, sanitaryware and ceramics.

 The first five-year plan came  The most saline lake in India  NABARD was established
into force in April 1951 and is Sambhar Lake in in 1982 on the
was active till March 1956. Rajasthan. recommendation of the
 The Chit Funds Act was Sivaraman Committee.
 GST was implemented on 1st enacted in 1982.
July 2017.  Inclusive development index
 Operation Twist refers to the was published by the World
 The headquarters of SEBI is RBI‘s simultaneous purchase Economic Forum.
in Mumbai. and sale of government
securities under Open  Red Data Book contains the
 Einstein received the Nobel Market Operations (OMO) list of endangered species
Prize for the photoelectric to influence interest rates and and is maintained by IUCN.
effect in 1921. manage market liquidity.
 P a g e | 28

 Basel Convention deals with Afghanistan, Pakistan and

transboundary movement of India.  The Comprehensive Test Ban
hazardous waste. Treaty (CTBT) is not signed
 The International Court of by India.
 Montreal Protocol (1987) Justice is located in The
deals with substances that Hague, Netherlands.  The Kolkata Port is India‟s
deplete the ozone layer. only riverine port.
 BRICS Bank is officially
 The first nuclear reactor in called New Development  India‘s first female IAS
India was Apsara (1956). Bank. officer was Anna Rajam
Malhotra.
 India‟s first satellite  Rammohun Roy founded
navigation project is the Atmiya Sabha in 1814 in  India‘s first full-length
GAGAN. Kolkata. feature film was Raja
Harishchandra (1913),
 CRISPR is a technology used  India‘s first digital village is directed by Dadasaheb
for gene editing. Akodara in Gujarat. Phalke.
 The first Indian talkie movie
 Boson particles have an  The Khetri mines in was Alam Ara, released on
integral spin (0, 1, 2...). Rajasthan are famous for March 14, 1931. It was
copper. directed by Ardeshir Irani
 Project Loon was initiated by and produced by Imperial
Google for balloon-powered  The earliest evidence of Film Co.
internet. agriculture in the Indian
subcontinent is found at  Habib Tanvir was known for
 Manimekalai, is a Tamil Mehrgarh. blending Chhattisgarhi folk
Buddhist epic composed by theatre with modern drama.
KulavāṇikaṉSeethalaiSataṉar  The Indo-Greeks were also
probably somewhere the first to issue gold coins  The pancreas acts both as an
between the 2nd century to in India. endocrine and exocrine
the 6th century. gland.
 Ashoka used the title
 UNESCO is headquartered ―DevanampiyaPiyadassi” in  The human body‘s largest
inParis, France. his inscriptions. organ is the skin.

 The Bretton Woods  River Teesta originates as  DNA was first isolated by
Conference led to the ChhomboChhu from a Friedrich Miescher in 1869.
formation of IMF and World glacial lake
Bank. KhangchungChho in  The Louvre Museum is
Sikkim. located in Paris and houses
 The Organization of the the Mona Lisa.
Petroleum Exporting  India‘s first SEZ was
Countries (OPEC)was established in Kandla,  The Nobel Peace Prize is
founded on 14 September Gujarat. awarded in Oslo, Norway.
1960 in Baghdad by the first
five members: Iran, Iraq,  The basic unit of heredity is  ASEAN was founded in 1967
Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the gene, located on in Bangkok, Thailand.
Venezuela. chromosomes.
 The oldest Upanishad is the
 The TAPI pipeline runs  India joined the MTCR Brihadaranyaka Upanishad.
through Turkmenistan, (Missile Technology Control
Regime) in 2016.
 P a g e | 29

 The Pali Canon is the sacred West Bengal, Tripura and

text of Theravada Buddhism.  The first successful heart Mizoram
transplant in India was
 NCERT was established in performed by Dr. P.  Tropic of Cancer passes the
1961 to assist and advise on Venugopal in 1994. districts in West Bengal
educational matters.  Bose-Einstein Condensate is are Purulia, Bankura,
the fifth state of matter Bardhaman and Nadia.
 The National Anthem was observed at near absolute
adopted on 24 January 1950. zero.  India‘s first bank was the
Bank of Hindustan (1770),
 The motto of the Supreme  Kalamkari is a traditional now defunct.
Court of India is Yato hand-painting textile art
Dharma Tato Jaya. from Andhra Pradesh.  Alessandro Volta invented
the first chemical battery in
 The first woman judge of the  The Tropic of Cancer passes 1800.
Supreme Court was Justice through eight Indian
Fathima Beevi. states. These states
are: Gujarat, Rajasthan,
 The Great Trigonometrical Madhya Pradesh,
Survey helped measure the Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand,
height of the Himalayas.

 "Black Box" in aircraft is Padmanabha, with historical

actually bright orange and  CROPIC (Collection of Real- mentions dating back to the
includes the Flight Data time Observations & Photo of 8th or 9th century CE.
Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Crops) uses AI and
Voice Recorder (CVR), built crowdsourcing to enhance  Thitu Island, also known as
to survive extreme crash efficiency and transparency Pag-asa Island, is the second
conditions and aid in in the agricultural sector. largest natural island in the
investigations. Spratly Islands, under
 Cathepsin B (Cat B) is a Philippine control since
 Statins inhibit HMG-CoA protein-degrading enzyme 1971, with a civilian
reductase to lower identified as a key factor in settlement, military presence
cholesterol and also exhibit ovarian reserve decline and and lies close to China‟s Subi
anti-inflammatory, immune- inhibiting it helps preserve Reef.
modulatory, antioxidative egg cells and prevent
and antithrombotic effects, premature fertility loss.  Kalvarayan Hills, part of the
making them useful beyond Eastern Ghats in Tamil
cardiovascular diseases.  Volcán de Fuego is a Nadu, span 1095 sq. km
stratovolcano located in across districts like Salem,
 Merchant Discount Rate Guatemala, near Antigua separating the Kaveri and
(MDR) is the percentage fee and is part of the Pacific Ring Palar basins, with
deducted by the bank from of Fire. PeriyaKalrayans (avg. height
digital payments made to 4000 ft) and Chinna
merchants, shared among the Kalrayans (2700 ft), inhabited
issuing bank, acquiring  Padmanabhaswamy Temple mainly by the Malayali tribe.
bank, payment system in Thiruvananthapuram,
operator and payment Kerala, is dedicated to Lord  Rare earth magnets, made
gateway. Vishnu as Ananta from alloys of rare earth
 P a g e | 30

elements like neodymium spectrometry, biomarkers cameras, enabling precise

and samarium-cobalt, are and AI modeling. manual control for tasks like
known for their high surveillance, monitoring and
magnetic strength and are  Thermophiles are heat- search-and-rescue within a
used in advanced loving microorganisms that short operational range.
technologies despite being thrive in high-temperature
brittle and corrosion-prone. environments like hot  The WHO‘s MPOWER
springs and thermal vents, framework outlines six key
 Agroterrorism is the often producing potent strategies to combat tobacco
deliberate use of plant or antibiotics to outcompete use: Monitor tobacco use,
animal pathogens by non- other microbes. Protect from second-hand
state actors to disrupt the smoke, Offer cessation
agriculture sector or food  Nanozymes are nano- support, Warn about risks,
supply, linking it to materials with enzyme-like Enforce ad bans and Raise
biological and chemical properties, functioning as tobacco taxes.
warfare. catalysts for biochemical
reactions similar to natural  Kalanamak rice, also known
 Kulsi River, a tributary of enzymes. as Buddha rice, is an
the Brahmaputra, originates aromatic, non-basmati
in West Khasi Hills of  Dickson Fjord, located in variety from eastern Uttar
Meghalaya, enters Assam at eastern Greenland, is part of Pradesh and Nepal‟s Tarai
Ukiam and flows about 76 the Arctic's glacial fjord region, known for its black
km to join the Brahmaputra system, characterized by husk, distinct fragrance and
at Nagarbera. deep inlets, steep cliffs, U- GI tag (2013), with
shaped valleys and long, cultivation dating back to 600
 Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary narrow reaches inland. BC.
in Andhra Pradesh's
Godavari delta is India's  Raigad Fort, the capital of  Biostimulants are substances
second largest mangrove Chhatrapati Shivaji that enhance plant growth
forest, home to species like Maharaj's Maratha Empire, is and stress tolerance by
the fishing cat, Brahminy a hill fort in Raigad district, improving nutrient uptake
kite and a breeding ground Maharashtra, known as the and resilience, not by
for Olive Ridley Turtles. 'Gibraltar of the East', with directly supplying nutrients
strategic elevation and and are regulated under the
 ECOWAS, founded in 1975 surrounded by Kal and Fertiliser Control Order
by the Treaty of Lagos, is a Gandhari river valleys. (FCO), 1985 by the Ministry
West African regional bloc of Agriculture.
aiming for economic  Lysosomal Storage
integration, free movement Disorders (LSDs) are  Kilauea Volcano, a shield-
and regional stability, now inherited metabolic type volcano in Hawaii,
comprising 12 member states disorders caused by stands at 4,190 feet, features
after Burkina Faso, Mali and defective lysosomal the Halemaʻumaʻu lava lake
Niger withdrew in 2024. enzymes, leading to the and is one of the world‟s
accumulation of complex most active volcanoes,
 Exposomics studies the total molecules like lipids, erupting continuously since
environmental exposures carbohydrates, or proteins 1983 with typically
(like pollutants, diet, stress, inside cells. nonexplosive eruptions.
chemicals) over a lifetime,
integrating external factors  First-Person View (FPV)  Moringa, or the “tree of life”,
with biological responses drones are small UAVs that is a nutrient-rich crop
using tools like mass provide real-time video (Moringa oleifera) native to
feeds to operators via India, known for thriving in
 P a g e | 31

tropical climates, with Diego Garcia, the largest and safety margin against gold
leaves, seeds, bark and pods southernmost island of the price fluctuations.
used in nutrition, medicine, archipelago.  Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio is
cosmetics and even biofuel. the percentage of a gold
 Clownfish, or anemonefish, asset's value a lender offers as
 Kiru Hydropower Project is are brightly colored marine a loan. Regulated by the RBI,
a 624 MW run-of-river fish known for their it ensures lenders maintain a
scheme on the Chenab River mutualistic symbiotic safety margin against gold
in Jammu & Kashmir, relationship with sea price fluctuations.
featuring a 135m-high anemones, offering
concrete gravity dam. protection and receiving  Greater Flamingo Sanctuary
shelter in return. in Dhanushkodi is a vital
 Liquid carbon is hard to stop on the Central Asian
study because it forms only  Salmonella is a group of Flyway, rich in mangroves
under extreme conditions-- bacteria that cause and home to 128 bird species.
high pressure (10 million salmonellosis, a foodborne
times Earth‘s atmosphere) illness transmitted mainly  DIGIPIN is a geo-coded,
and temperatures around through contaminated food open-source digital
4,500°C--and no container or water, especially raw addressing system that
can survive such intense meat, eggs and unwashed assigns a unique 10-character
environments. produce. alphanumeric code to every
4x4 meter location in India.
 Intercrystals are novel  Index Card is a non-statutory Developed by the
materials formed by stacking statistical report prepared by Department of Posts, IIT
and twisting ultrathin layers the Election Commission of Hyderabad and ISRO‟s
of graphene and hexagonal India post-election, NRSC, it enhances precision
boron nitride, creating providing constituency-level in deliveries, emergency
unique moiré patterns with electoral data for academic, response and service access--
distinct physical properties. research and policy analysis. even in rural or remote areas.

 Chagos Islands, a UK  Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio is

overseas territory in the the percentage of a gold
central Indian Ocean, are asset's value a lender offers as
strategically important due to a loan. Regulated by the RBI,
the U.S. military base on it ensures lenders maintain a