Prime Affairs

  World War-1 (1914–1918) – Complete UPSC Prelims + Mains Revision Notes  1. Background of World War-1 A. Europe Before 1914 4 Europe was dominated by Great Powers competing for colonies, trade routes, and military strength. After the unification of Germany in 1871 , it became Europe’s fastest-growing industrial and military power. Old empires were weakening: Ottoman Empire – called “Sick Man of Europe” Austro‑Hungarian Empire – ethnic tensions rising  The Balkan region became unstable and was called “Powder Keg of Europe.” B. Major Causes – Remember M.A.I.N. 1. Militarism Countries built massive armies and navies. Arms race between Germany and United Kingdom . Compulsory military service common.  Europe was ready for war even before 1914. 2. Alliance System Countries formed military alliances for protection. Triple Entente United Kingdom France Russia Triple Alliance Germany Austria‑Hungary Italy Alliances turned a small conflict into a world war. 3. Imperiali...

  Indian Navy & Naval Defence System – UPSC Prelims Notes 1. Importance of Indian Navy in National Security 4 India is a maritime nation because: India has 7,500 km coastline . Important Island Territories → Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep. 90% of India’s trade by volume passes through sea routes. India imports most of its oil & gas via sea . Therefore Indian Navy ensures: Sea Control → Control own sea routes. Sea Denial → Prevent enemy ships from entering. Power Projection → Show military strength globally. Protection of Trade Routes → Especially Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) . UPSC Keywords: Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) Blue Water Navy Maritime Security 2. Historical Evolution of Indian Navy (A) Post-Independence Phase (1947-1960) India inherited ships from British Royal Navy. Navy was small and technologically weak. Heavy dependence on United Kingdom for ships & weapons. (B) Cold War Phase (1960-1990) ...

UPSC Prelims Current Affairs Notes (28 Feb 2026 – The Hindu Analysis)   1. GDP New Series and India’s Economic Growth (General Studies Paper-3: Economy) A. What is GDP? Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total monetary value of all final goods and services produced within a country in a given period. Used to measure: Economic performance Development trend Comparison with other countries Does not include intermediate goods to avoid double counting. GDP Formula GDP = C + I + G + (X – M) Where: C → Private Consumption I → Investment G → Government Expenditure X → Exports M → Imports Net exports = X – M This formula helps understand which sector drives growth. B. Real GDP vs Nominal GDP Nominal GDP Measured at current market prices. Includes inflation. Shows higher growth numbers. Useful for comparing debt ratios. Real GDP Adjusted for inflation. Shows actual growth. Used for policy and planning. Important Concept: If inflation is high, nominal GDP rises even without real growth. C. ...

  ASSAM RIFLES – COMPLETE UPSC PRELIMS NOTES 1. Basic Identification 4 Assam Rifles = India’s Oldest Paramilitary Force Known as: Sentinels of the North East Friends of the Hill People Established: 1835 Headquarters: Shillong, Meghalaya Motto: Friends of the Hill People Nickname: Right Arm of Civil & Left Arm of Military ✔ Important for Prelims: Oldest CAPF + Only CAPF with Army operational control. 2. Historical Background & Formation Formed in 1835 as Cachar Levy by British. Reason for formation: Protect British tea plantations in Assam Safeguard traders & colonial administrative posts. Control tribal raids in frontier regions. Name Evolution Cachar Levy → Frontier Police → Assam Military Police → Assam Rifles British Period Role Secured trade routes. Connected North-East with mainland India administratively. Assisted in expansion of colonial authority. World Wars Contribution Personnel sent to fight in: World War I World War II Europe & Middle East theatres. ✔...