November 06th Current Affairs
Table of Contents
Participant and Non-Participant Observation
Home / Participant and Non-Participant Observation Participant Observation Meaning and Nature of Participant Observation Participant observation is a qualitative research
Schedule as a Data Collection Tool in Sociology
Home / Schedule as a Data Collection Tool in Sociology In sociological research, the accuracy and reliability of data depend
Interview as a Data Collection Method in Sociology
Home / Interview as a Data Collection Method in Sociology In sociological research, understanding human behavior, attitudes, and social processes
Questionnaire as a Quantitative Method
Home / Questionnaire as a Quantitative Method In social science research, the questionnaire is one of the most widely used
Census as a Quantitative Method
Home / Census as a Quantitative Method The census is one of the most comprehensive quantitative tools used in social
Survey as a Quantitative Method
Home / Survey as a Quantitative Method In sociological research, quantitative methods are essential for studying social phenomena in a
Techniques of Data Collection in Sociology
Home / Techniques of Data Collection in Sociology Techniques of data collection constitute one of the most significant components of
Qualitative Research Method in Sociology
Home / Qualitative Research Method in Sociology Qualitative research refers to an approach to social research that focuses on non-quantitative
Quantitative Research Method in Sociology
Home / Quantitative Research Method in Sociology Quantitative research refers to a systematic investigation of social phenomena through the collection
Research Methodology in Sociology
Home / Research Methodology in Sociology Research refers to a systematic, objective, and critical investigation of social reality with the
Doctors report 60% rise in eye problems as toxic smog engulfs Delhi
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & Rights
- Demonstrates the role of government institutions and local bodies in managing air quality and enforcing environmental laws.
- Brings focus to citizens’ right to a clean and healthy environment under Article 21 (Right to Life).
- Raises issues of intergovernmental coordination, policy effectiveness, and administrative accountability in pollution control.
- Reflects on public awareness and participatory governance in tackling environmental and health crises.
GS Paper III: Environment, Disaster & Risk Management
- Directly relates to air pollution, its health impacts, and urban environmental challenges in India.
- Involves discussion on PM2.5/PM10 pollution, smog formation, and climate-health nexus.
- Demonstrates the failure of preventive environmental management and the urgency of sustainable urban planning.
- Links to National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) and Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981.
More About the News
- Doctors in Delhi report about a 50-60 % surge in eye-ailments like itchiness, redness and watering due to severe smog.
- The spike is attributed to post-Diwali smog, high concentrations of PM2.5/PM10 and chemical residues from fireworks and dust.
- Experts warn prolonged exposure may cause chronic ocular surface damage — affecting children, elderly and outdoor workers most severely.
Air Pollution
Air pollution, a critical environmental and public health challenge, arises from anthropogenic and natural sources, causing severe health, ecological, and economic impacts. Combating it is essential for sustainable development, climate resilience, and societal well-being.
Important Data Sets
- PM2.5 & PM10 Levels: Delhi recorded annual average PM2.5 of 115 µg/m³ in 2024 (WHO guideline: 5 µg/m³).
- Global Air Pollution: 99% of the global population breathes polluted air exceeding WHO standards.
- Mortality Data: ~7 million deaths annually worldwide linked to air pollution (WHO, 2023).
- Urban vs Rural: 70% of Indian cities with >1 million population exceed safe air quality limits.
- Economic Loss: Air pollution causes ~1% of India’s GDP loss annually due to health expenses and productivity decline.
Causes of Air Pollution
- Industrial Emissions: Factories release SO2, NOx, and particulate matter.
Example: Steel plants in Jamshedpur and power plants in NTPC regions. - Vehicular Pollution: Cars, trucks, and two-wheelers emit CO, NOx, and PM.
Example: Delhi-NCR experiences dense smog during winter months. - Biomass Burning: Crop residue burning contributes to PM2.5 and toxic gases.
Example: Punjab & Haryana stubble burning every post-harvest season. - Construction Dust: Debris and unpaved roads generate suspended particulate matter.
Example: Rapid urbanization in Bengaluru and Mumbai. - Natural Sources: Dust storms, forest fires, volcanic eruptions.
Example: Rajasthan dust storms transport PM across northern India.
- Industrial Emissions: Factories release SO2, NOx, and particulate matter.
Impacts of Air Pollution
- Health Impacts: Respiratory, cardiovascular diseases, cancer.
Example: Rise in asthma and COPD cases in Delhi during winter. - Environmental Damage: Acid rain, reduced soil fertility, water contamination.
Example: SO2 from industries causing acidification in rivers near Singrauli. - Economic Loss: Increased healthcare expenditure and reduced workforce productivity.
Example: Loss of over ₹5,00,000 crore annually in India due to pollution-related diseases. - Climate Change: Black carbon and particulate matter accelerate global warming.
Example: Soot from crop residue burning influencing Himalayan glacial melt. - Biodiversity Threats: Harm to flora and fauna, affecting ecosystems.
Example: Acid deposition damaging sensitive alpine and aquatic species.
- Health Impacts: Respiratory, cardiovascular diseases, cancer.
Challenges in Curbing Air Pollution
- Rapid Urbanization: Increases traffic, construction dust, and energy demand.
Example: Delhi’s vehicle population growth outpaces emission regulations. - Agricultural Practices: Crop burning remains a recurring seasonal problem.
Example: Punjab-Haryana stubble burning contributing to Delhi smog. - Weak Regulatory Enforcement: Existing laws are not strictly implemented.
Example: Industries violating emission norms in Maharashtra and UP. - Public Awareness: Limited knowledge on pollution mitigation and health risks.
Example: Low adoption of cleaner cooking fuels in rural India. - Transboundary Pollution: Pollution travels across states/countries, complicating control.
Example: Dust from Pakistan and Rajasthan affecting northern India.
- Rapid Urbanization: Increases traffic, construction dust, and energy demand.
National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
Launched in 2019 to reduce particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) levels by 20–30% by 2024–25 compared to 2017 levels.
Covers 132 non-attainment cities (cities not meeting air quality standards), later expanded to 360+ cities.
Focuses on source-based interventions: vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, dust control, waste burning, and crop residue management.
Establishes air quality monitoring networks and public reporting mechanisms.
Promotes capacity building, public awareness, and research for long-term air quality improvement.
Encourages state and city-level action plans with defined targets and accountability.
Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
Implemented in Delhi-NCR to combat severe air pollution episodes, particularly during winter.
Tiered actions based on Air Quality Index (AQI) severity: Moderate, Poor, Very Poor, Severe, Emergency.
Measures include:
Vehicular restrictions (odd-even schemes or diesel/petrol limitations).
Suspension of construction activities in high-pollution episodes.
Temporary shutdown of polluting industries during severe smog.
Ban on burning of biomass, garbage, and firecrackers.
Acts as a real-time emergency response framework to protect public health during pollution spikes.
Air Quality Index (AQI)
- AQI: Composite index measuring pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, CO, O3.
- Features:
- Scale: 0–500, higher values is worse air quality.
- Categories: Good, Satisfactory, Moderate, Poor, Very Poor, Severe.
- Helps policymakers and citizens take precautionary measures.
Government Initiatives
- Odd-Even Scheme in Delhi to reduce vehicular emissions.
- Promotion of CNG and EVs in public transport.
- Scrapping of old vehicles under Bharat Stage norms.
- Clean energy initiatives: Solar, wind, and LPG adoption.
- Air Quality Monitoring: CPCB’s Continuous Air Quality Monitoring Stations (CAAQMS)
Best Practices
India:
- Pune: Tree plantation and green belt development around industrial zones.
- Chandigarh: Integrated public transport promotion to reduce personal vehicle use.
Global:
- London (UK): Congestion pricing to reduce vehicular emissions.
- Beijing (China): Strict industrial relocation and emission control policies; adoption of green tech.
Way Forward
- Strengthen inter-state and international coordination to tackle transboundary pollution.
- Promote clean energy, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient technologies.
- Increase public awareness campaigns and school programs on air quality.
- Improve real-time monitoring, data transparency, and citizen participation.
- Implement strict enforcement of emission norms, incentives for green industries, and penalties for violators.
Air pollution control requires integrated approaches combining technology, policy enforcement, public awareness, and sustainable practices, ensuring cleaner air, healthier populations, and resilience against climate change for future generations.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Which of the following are the reasons/factors for exposure to benzene pollution? (PYQ 2020)
1. Automobile exhaust
2. Tobacco smoke
3. Wood burning
4. Using varnished wooden furniture
5. Using products made of polyurethane
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1, 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
D. 3 only
Benzene is primarily emitted from combustion processes, such as automobile exhaust, tobacco smoke, and wood burning. Varnished furniture and polyurethane products do not significantly release benzene; they may emit other VOCs instead. Hence, only 1, 2, and 3 are major sources of benzene exposure.
Mains Question
Q. Describe the key points of the revised Global Air Quality Guidelines (AQGs) recently released by the World Health Organisation (WHO). How are these different from its last update in 2005? What changes in India’s National Clean Air Programme are required to achieve revised standards? (PYQ 2021)
Zohran Mamdani invokes Nehru in victory speech, says New York City mayoral election toppled ‘political dynasty’
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: Governance, Constitution & Polity
- Illustrates the functioning of democratic institutions and representation of minorities in political leadership within a liberal democracy.
- Raises issues of inclusive governance, diversity in leadership, and institutional reform to reflect changing demographics.
- Highlights comparative governance models and lessons for India on participatory democracy and minority empowerment.
- Reflects the exercise of political rights and civic participation by immigrant-origin communities in host nations.
More About the News
- Zohran Mamdani (age 34) won the New York mayoral election, becoming the city’s first Muslim and South-Asian mayor.
- His campaign stressed rent freezes, free buses and universal childcare, signalling a progressive, anti-establishment agenda.
- The victory is seen as a sign of shifting political trends in major global cities, blending grassroots mobilisation with identity representation.
Nehruvian Socialism
Rooted in democratic ideals, Nehruvian Socialism sought to balance economic growth with social justice, using state-led planning and public sector expansion to build a self-reliant, equitable post-colonial India.
What is Nehruvian Socialism?
- A form of democratic socialism adapted to Indian conditions by Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Combined socialist economic planning with democratic political structure — unlike Marxist socialism, it rejected class struggle and dictatorship of the proletariat.
- Aimed at achieving economic equality through state intervention, not through violent revolution.
- Promoted mixed economy, where both public and private sectors co-existed under state guidance.
Objectives of Nehruvian Socialism
- Economic growth with social justice: Reduce inequality and poverty.
- Industrialisation through the development of heavy industries and the public sector.
- Self-reliance and reduction of dependence on foreign powers.
- Welfare of the poor through social services like health, education, and employment.
- Democratic planning to direct resources for national priorities.
- Balanced regional development and elimination of socio-economic disparities.
Implementation in India
- Planning Commission (1950) established to design Five-Year Plans for resource allocation.
- Industrial Policy Resolution (1956) — emphasised public sector dominance in commanding heights of the economy.
- Five-Year Plans:
- First Plan (1951–56): Agriculture & irrigation focus.
- Second Plan (1956–61): Mahalanobis model focuses on heavy industries.
- Public sector expansion: Creation of PSUs like BHEL, SAIL, ONGC, etc.
- Land reforms: Abolition of zamindari, tenancy regulation, and land ceiling laws.
- Community Development Programme & Panchayati Raj promoted rural participation and grassroots governance.
Achievements of Nehruvian Socialism
- Laid the foundation for India’s industrial base and infrastructure development.
- Promoted scientific temper and establishment of institutions like IITs, CSIR, and ISRO.
- Strengthened democracy while promoting state-led development.
- Helped achieve self-sufficiency in food production and industrial diversification.
- Created a mixed economy model balancing market freedom and state control.
- Gave India an independent foreign policy aligned with economic sovereignty.
Limitations and Criticisms
- Over-bureaucratisation and red-tapism slowed growth.
- Inefficient public sector enterprises and limited productivity.
- Neglect of agriculture in later plans.
- Persistent poverty and inequality, despite planned efforts.
- Overemphasis on import substitution led to lack of competitiveness and innovation.
Way Forward
- Continue the spirit of inclusive growth through welfare schemes and targeted subsidies.
- Foster public-private partnerships (PPP) for efficiency in social and infrastructure sectors.
- Promote innovation-led growth aligned with sustainable development goals (SDGs).
- Enhance social sector investment (education, health, skills) to achieve equitable progress.
- Strengthen decentralised governance and cooperative federalism to reflect democratic socialist ideals.
Building upon Nehru’s socialist vision requires blending economic liberalisation with social responsibility, ensuring growth reaches all strata, fostering innovation while upholding equality, justice, and sustainable human development.
Prelims MCQ
Q. Under the Indian Constitution, concentration of wealth violates. (PYQ 2021)
A. the Right to Equality
B. the Directive Principles of State Policy
C. the Right to Freedom
D. the Concept of Welfare
Mains Question
Q. Critically analyse the relevance of Nehruvian Socialism in shaping India’s post-independence economic policy and discuss its continued significance in the era of liberalisation and globalisation.
Canada rejects record 74% of Indian student visa applications in August, highest refusal rate globally
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: International Relations
- Underlines India-Canada relations, especially the effect of diplomatic tensions on education and student migration.
- Demonstrates how international migration flows (students) intersect with foreign policy, bilateral relations, and global mobility frameworks.
- Offers a case study in how global geopolitical shifts and host-country policy changes impact Indian citizens abroad.
More About the News
- In August 2025, Canada rejected around 74 % of study-permit applications from Indian students, up from about 32 % in August 2023.
- The number of applicants from India plunged from roughly 20,900 in August 2023 to just 4,515 in August 2025 amid stricter fraud checks and higher proof-of-funds hurdles.
- The spike in rejections comes amid ongoing diplomatic tension between India and Canada and concerns of misuse of the international student-visa system.
India-Canada Relations
India–Canada relations are rooted in shared democratic values, Commonwealth heritage, and strong people-to-people ties, evolving from historical connections to a multifaceted partnership spanning trade, education, technology, and strategic cooperation.
Evolution of Ties
- Pre-Independence era: Early Indian migration to Canada; Komagata Maru incident (1914) shaped diaspora consciousness.
- Post-Independence (1947–1960s): Diplomatic ties established in 1947; cooperation through the Commonwealth and UN.
- Cold War era: Ties strained post-1974 after India’s nuclear test at Pokhran.
- Post-1990s: Relations normalised; focus on trade, education, and technology.
- 21st century: Enhanced engagement through frameworks like the Strategic Partnership (2015) and growing diaspora influence.
Strengths in the Ties
- Strong diaspora links: Over 1.6 million people of Indian origin, fostering cultural and educational exchange.
- Educational cooperation: Canada a top destination for Indian students.
- Economic engagement: Growing trade and investment ties; collaboration in IT, agriculture, energy, and clean technology.
- Democratic values: Shared commitment to rule of law, pluralism, and human rights.
- Strategic collaboration: Cooperation in counterterrorism, climate change, and global health.
Weakness in the Ties
- Limited trade volume despite potential; absence of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
- Divergent foreign policy approaches on global issues.
- Perception gaps due to political rhetoric on domestic issues.
- Weak institutional mechanisms for sustained high-level political engagement.
Challenges in the Ties
- Khalistani separatism and extremist activities in Canada affecting India’s internal security.
- Diplomatic strains over interference in domestic affairs.
- Visa and student visa rejection rates, impacting people-to-people trust.
- Slow progress on trade agreements (CEPA & FIPA).
- Geopolitical misalignment amid India’s Indo-Pacific rise and Canada’s Western alignment.
How the Challenges are Countered ?
- Regular diplomatic dialogues through ministerial and working group meetings.
- Intelligence sharing on terrorism and extremism.
- Diaspora engagement for balanced perception management.
- Negotiations on CEPA and FIPA to deepen economic integration.
- Multilateral cooperation through G20 and UN to strengthen trust.
Common Groupings Globally
- United Nations (UN)
- G20
- Commonwealth of Nations
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Arctic Council (as observers)
Common Initiatives Taken Up
- Framework for Cooperation on Clean Energy and Climate Change (2015)
- MoUs on Science, Technology and Innovation
- Track 1.5 Dialogues on Security and Trade
- Cooperation under International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- Engagement through Indo-Pacific partnerships and educational exchanges
Way Forward
- Depoliticise bilateral engagement by separating diaspora issues from diplomatic cooperation.
- Fast-track CEPA/FIPA negotiations to boost trade and investment.
- Enhance security cooperation to curb extremism and ensure mutual respect for sovereignty.
- Strengthen educational, innovation, and technological linkages through institutional collaborations.
- Expand cooperation in renewable energy, Arctic research, and digital innovation.
For a resilient partnership, India and Canada must transcend transient political frictions, foster trust, and build synergy in trade, technology, and education to advance shared democratic and developmental goals.
Prelims MCQ
Q. The Komagata Maru incident (1914) is significant in Indian history because it,
A. Marked the beginning of the Non-Cooperation Movement
B. Was a protest against racial discrimination by British authorities in Canada
C. Led to the establishment of the Ghadar Party
D. Resulted in the formation of the Indian National Congress abroad
In 1914, the ship Komagata Maru, carrying Indian immigrants, was denied entry into Vancouver under discriminatory Canadian laws. The passengers, mostly Punjabis, protested against racial exclusion and colonial injustice. The incident became a symbol of resistance against imperial racism and inspired nationalist movements in India and abroad.
Mains Question
Q. Examine the major challenges in India–Canada relations in recent years. How can both nations leverage shared values to revitalise their strategic and economic partnership?
China-based company kicks off trial production of flying cars, ahead of Tesla
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper III: Science & Technology & Emerging Technologies
- Highlights emerging technologies like electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles and “flying cars” as part of India’s future mobility landscape and global tech race.
- Signals manufacturing innovation in a major economy, offering lessons for India’s initiatives such as Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat and advanced mobility ecosystems.
- Raises policy-questions around regulation, certification, infrastructure (vertiports, air traffic rules) and safety standards.
- Illustrates global competition in technology and manufacturing (China vs Western firms), which has direct relevance for India’s economic-strategy, trade policy and tech-diplomacy.
More about the News
- The Chinese firm Xpeng AeroHT, a subsidiary of Xpeng Inc., has begun trial production of modular flying cars at a factory in Guangzhou.
- Their model, called the “Land Aircraft Carrier,” combines a six-wheel ground vehicle and a detachable eVTOL aircraft for road and air mobility.
- The facility reportedly has an initial annual capacity of 5,000 units (scalable to 10,000), and pre-orders of nearly 5,000 have already been secured ahead of deliveries in 2026.
Emerging Technologies
Emerging technologies represent innovations at the frontier of science and engineering, reshaping industries, governance, and human lifestyles through transformative applications in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing.
What is it?
- Emerging technologies are novel, rapidly evolving scientific innovations that have the potential to disrupt existing systems and create new opportunities.
- They often exist at an experimental or developmental stage, with wide-ranging implications for economy, security, and society.
- Examples include AI, quantum technology, blockchain, robotics, nanotechnology, and synthetic biology.
Scope of Emerging Technologies
- Economic Growth: Drives productivity, entrepreneurship, and high-tech job creation.
- National Security: Strengthens cyber defence, surveillance, and strategic autonomy.
- Healthcare & Education: Enables precision medicine, e-learning, and data-driven decision-making.
- Governance: Facilitates e-governance, smart cities, and transparent service delivery.
- Sustainability: Aids climate modeling, renewable energy innovation, and efficient resource use.
Difference Between Emerging and Critical Technologies
- Emerging Technologies:
- Are new, developing, and experimental with uncertain long-term impact.
- Focus on innovation and potential future applications.
- Example: Quantum computing, gene editing.
- Critical Technologies:
- Are strategically essential for national security, economy, or sovereignty.
- Often include mature or sensitive tech needing protection from misuse or foreign control.
- Example: Cybersecurity systems, satellite navigation, nuclear tech.
- Emerging Technologies:
How Emerging Tech is Impacting Human Life ?
- Automation & AI improving productivity and decision-making.
- Digital health innovations enhancing diagnosis, telemedicine, and preventive care.
- Smart governance tools promoting transparency and citizen engagement.
- EdTech platforms transforming access to knowledge and skill development.
- Sustainable solutions advancing climate resilience and green growth.
Challenges Faced in Developing Such Technologies
- Funding and R&D gaps limiting large-scale innovation.
- Skill shortage in advanced scientific and computational domains.
- Ethical and privacy concerns due to AI and data misuse.
- Regulatory uncertainty affecting experimentation and deployment.
- Geopolitical tech competition causing dependency and restrictions.
Government Initiatives Taken Up
- National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications (NM-QTA).
- India AI Mission for AI innovation and governance.
- National Supercomputing Mission (NSM) to boost computational capacity.
- Digital India Programme for digital infrastructure and literacy.
- Atal Innovation Mission & Startup India promoting R&D and entrepreneurship.
- Semicon India Programme to build a domestic semiconductor ecosystem.
Way Forward
- Increase R&D investment to 2% of GDP.
- Develop ethical frameworks for responsible AI and biotechnology.
- Foster global collaborations in frontier tech development.
- Enhance STEM education and digital skills for youth.
- Ensure cybersecurity and data protection through robust policy mechanisms.
Emerging technologies will define humanity’s next growth frontier; India must integrate innovation, ethics, and inclusion to harness them responsibly for sustainable progress and global technological leadership.
Prelims MCQ
Q.
With reference to “Blockchain Technology”, consider the following statements: (PYQ 2020)
1. It is a public ledger that everyone can inspect, but which no single user controls.
2. The structure and design of blockchain is such that all the data in it are about cryptocurrency only.
3. Applications that depend on basic features of blockchain can be developed without anybody’s permission.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 only
D. 1 and 3 only
Statement 1 is correct: Blockchain is a distributed public ledger where transactions are transparent and immutable, not controlled by a single user. Statement 2 is incorrect: Blockchain’s use extends beyond cryptocurrency — to supply chains, voting, land records, and smart contracts. Statement 3 is correct: Being open-source, blockchain allows developers to build decentralized apps without central authority or permission.
Mains Question
Q. The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government. Discuss. (PYQ 2020)
India, Indonesia close to sealing BrahMos missile deal; Russia's nod awaited
Relevance to UPSC
GS Paper II: International Relations
- Illustrates how defence diplomacy is integral to India’s strategic governance and the formulation of external-policy tools.
- Highlights the interplay between national security priorities and export-control regimes in India’s governance architecture.
GS Paper III: Defence & Security
- Signifies India’s evolving role as an arms exporter and contributor to regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
- Reflects the bilateral strategic engagement between India and Indonesia, contributing to maritime security, power balance and defence manufacturing cooperation.
- Demonstrates how defence trade connects to economic development (manufacturing, export potential) and technological capability building.
More about the News
- India and Indonesia are poised to finalise a major deal for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system but the Russian partner’s nod is still awaited.
- The deal underscores India’s growing defence-export credentials and deepening strategic partnership with Indonesia in the Indo-Pacific.
- If concluded, the agreement would mark India’s advancement from being primarily an arms importer to a global supplier of advanced military technology.
Brahmos Missile
The BrahMos missile, a hallmark of Indo-Russian defence cooperation, represents India’s technological prowess in precision strike capability, reinforcing its deterrence posture and maritime dominance in the Indo-Pacific security landscape.
Overview
- BrahMos is a supersonic cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia.
- It can be launched from land, air, sea, and submarine platforms.
- The missile’s range has been extended from 290 km to over 500 km after India joined the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).
- It is among the fastest operational cruise missiles in the world, with a speed of Mach 2.8–3.0.
Why is it Named “BrahMos”
- The name is derived from the Brahmaputra River (India) and the Moskva River (Russia), symbolising bilateral cooperation.
- It represents the fusion of Indian and Russian technological expertise in defence innovation.
Developed By
- Jointly developed by BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL), a joint venture between DRDO (India) and NPOM (Russia).
- Established in 1998 under an inter-governmental agreement.
Capabilities
- Supersonic speed: Reduces enemy reaction time, ensuring high strike accuracy.
- Multi-platform launch: Capable of being fired from warships, aircraft (Su-30MKI), submarines, and mobile launchers.
- Stealth and precision: Employs advanced guidance systems for low radar signature and pinpoint targeting.
- High lethality: Capable of carrying conventional warheads of 200–300 kg.
- Versatile targeting: Effective against surface ships, bunkers, and radar installations.
Parallel Missiles in Other Countries
- USA: Tomahawk cruise missile.
- Russia: Kalibr missile system.
- China: CJ-10 (Changjian) missile.
- France: SCALP/Storm Shadow.
- Pakistan: Babur cruise missile.
Parallel Missiles in Other Countries
- Enhances deterrence and strengthens India’s second-strike capability.
- Bolsters naval and air superiority in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region.
- Promotes self-reliance in defence manufacturing (Atmanirbhar Bharat).
- Increases export potential—Philippines has already procured BrahMos for coastal defence.
- Acts as a force multiplier for tri-service integrated operations.
The BrahMos missile epitomises India’s rise as a strategic technology power; expanding its range and exports will enhance deterrence, defence diplomacy, and regional stability in a multipolar world.
Prelims MCQ
Q.Consider the following statements: (PYQ 2023)
1. Ballistic missiles are jet-propelled at subsonic speeds throughout their flights, while cruise missiles are rocket powered only in the initial phase of flight.
2. Agni-V is a medium-range supersonic cruise missile, while BrahMos is a solid-fuelled intercontinental ballistic missile.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. Both 1 and 2
D. Neither 1 nor 2
CCAFS, an international research programme under CGIAR, promotes the Climate-Smart Village (CSV) approach to integrate climate resilience in agriculture. CGIAR, headquartered in France, coordinates global agricultural research. ICRISAT, based in Hyderabad, is one of CGIAR’s research centres focusing on dryland crops and sustainable farming systems.
Mains Question
Q. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat. (PYQ 2023)


