Latest news with #CivilServicesPreliminaryExamination2025
Time of India
25-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
Over 14k candidates appear for UPSC Prelims in Indore amid elaborate arrangements
Indore: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducted Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 on Sunday across the country including 36 designated centres in Indore. Over 14,692 aspirants appeared for the exam in two sessions. Candidates began arriving at the centres one to two hours before the scheduled time. Due to strict verification procedures, many were seen waiting outside the examination gates for over an hour. Only after thorough document checks and security screening, the candidates were allowed to enter the examination halls. Despite the long wait, the pleasant weather in the city provided some relief to the candidates. The examination saw candidates from various cities arriving in Indore a day earlier. Many travelled from Khargone, Jhabua, and other nearby cities to participate. T he first session was held from 9:30am to 11:30am and the second from 2:30pm to 4:30pm. Taking lessons from the disruption during the NEET UG examination earlier this month — when power outages due to storms and rain affected 24 centres in Indore and Ujjain — the administration made elaborate preparations for Sunday's UPSC examination. Indore divisional commissioner, Deepak Singh, was appointed as the coordinating officer for the examination. All arrangements were in place for smooth conduct of the exam. Observers were deployed at each centre to oversee the proceedings. Singh had instructed electricity department officials to ensure an uninterrupted power supply at all centres from 7am to 7pm. Backup power arrangements were also made in case of any emergency. In addition, arrangements for drinking water, clean pathways, and well-maintained sanitation facilities were ensured at every centre. This year, more than 9.48 lakh candidates applied for the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination being held at 2,368 centres across 80 cities in the country. As per official figures, 14,691 candidates had registered for the exam in Indore. In the first session, 9,761 candidates were present while 4,930 were absent, recording an attendance of 66%. In the second session, 9,571 candidates appeared, while 5,120 remained absent. The overall attendance across both sessions stood at approximately 65%.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
UPSC Prelims 2025 exam analysis: 1st shift paper review, difficulty level, answer key & students' reactions
UPSC Prelims 2025 exam analysis soon: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) held the first shift of the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 today, May 25, 2025. The exam took place from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM. Candidates appeared at various exam centers across India. They attempted the highly competitive General Studies Paper 1. UPSC Prelims 2025: Difficulty Level & Section-wise Analysis The UPSC Prelims 2025 General Studies Paper 1 is expected to follow a balanced pattern. Based on past trends, the difficulty level may range from moderate to slightly challenging. Key topics is expected to include Current Affairs, History, Polity, and Environment. Aspirants can expect a mix of factual and conceptual questions. The exam will end at 11:30 AM, after which we'll update the detailed UPSC Prelims 2025 paper analysis, answer key, and students reactions here. UPSC Prelims 2025 GS Paper 1: Highlights The UPSC Prelims 2025 GS Paper 1 is expected to cover a wide range of topics. These may include current affairs, history, polity, economy, environment, and general science. It is expected to follow the trend of previous years. No major changes in the question pattern are expected. But application-based questions will likely be given more weight. Official UPSC Prelims 2025 Answer Key (out soon) The official UPSC Prelims 2025 answer key will be released by the Union Public Service Commission after the completion of the entire examination cycle, including the mains and interview stages. Candidates will be able to download the answer keys for both General Studies Paper 1 and CSAT (Paper 2) from the UPSC official website. Download UPSC Prelims Answer Key 2025 (Unofficial) Although, here we will share the unofficial answer key 2025 soon after today's exam conclusion. Students' Reactions on UPSC Prelims 2025 First Shift Students are expected to react with a mix of relief and cautious optimism after the UPSC Prelims 2025 first shift. Many may find the paper challenging but manageable. Soon we'll share the students reactions here for UPSC prelims 2025 for 1st shift as exam will end at 11:30 AM. UPSC 2025 Expected Cutoff The UPSC Prelims 2025 cutoff will depend on a few key factors. These include the difficulty level of the question paper and the number of vacancies. Since the number of vacancies is expected to be similar to previous years (around 1000), the cutoff will mostly depend on how tough the paper is. Important UPSC Prelims 2025 Syllabus Topics Covered The important syllabus topics covered in the UPSC Prelims 2025 include two compulsory papers: General Studies Paper 1 and CSAT (Paper 2). General Studies Paper 1: Current events of national and international importance History of India and the Indian National Movement Indian and world geography (physical, social, and economic) Indian polity and governance including the Constitution, political system, Panchayati Raj, and public policy Economic and social development such as sustainable development, poverty, inclusion, demographics, and social sector initiatives General issues on environmental ecology, biodiversity, and climate change General science CSAT (Paper 2) tests: Comprehension and interpersonal skills including communication Logical reasoning and analytical ability Decision making and problem solving General mental ability Basic numeracy (Class X level) Data interpretation including charts, graphs, tables, and data sufficiency (Class X level) CSAT is a qualifying paper with a minimum required score of 33%, while General Studies Paper 1 determines the candidate's ranking. Both papers include objective multiple-choice questions with negative marking for incorrect answers What after UPSC Prelims 2025? After the UPSC Prelims 2025 exam, candidates who qualify will move to the next stage. The UPSC Mains 2025 exam is scheduled for August 22, 2025. The Prelims result will be declared within about ten days after the exam. Only those who clear the cutoff will be eligible to appear for the Mains.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
UPSC Prelims 2025 today: Exam timings, admit card, guidelines and what to carry
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is conducting the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 today, May 25, across various centres in the country. The examination is being held in two shifts — the morning shift starts at 9:30 a.m. and the afternoon shift begins at 2:30 p.m. UPSC Prelims 2025 Exam Timings Morning Shift: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Afternoon Shift: 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Candidates are advised to reach the examination centre at least one hour before the scheduled start time. As per official guidelines, entry will be closed 30 minutes prior to the commencement of each shift. UPSC Prelims Admit Card 2025 Released The UPSC CSE Prelims Admit Card 2025 was released on May 13, 2025. All candidates must download and carry a printed copy of their admit card to the exam centre. Along with the admit card, it is mandatory to carry a valid photo ID proof such as: Aadhaar Card Voter ID PAN Card Passport Driving License In case of any discrepancies (such as incorrect name, photograph, or QR code) on the admit card, candidates must contact UPSC immediately at: uscsp-upsc@ Live Events What Pen to Use in UPSC Prelims? Candidates must use a black ballpoint pen to fill the OMR sheet. Other types of pens are not allowed and may lead to disqualification. How to Download UPSC Admit Card 2025 If you haven't downloaded your admit card yet, follow these steps: Visit the official UPSC website: Click on the 'CSE Prelims Admit Card 2025' link on the homepage. Enter your Roll Number/Registration ID and Date of Birth. Your admit card will appear on the screen. Download and print it for future reference. Key Exam Day Guidelines for UPSC CSE Prelims 2025 Reach the exam centre at least 60 minutes before the scheduled time. No entry will be allowed 30 minutes before the exam begins. Carry your Admit Card and a valid original photo ID. Bring a black ballpoint pen only — no gel or ink pens allowed. Follow all instructions provided by invigilators inside the exam hall. Final Note for UPSC Aspirants Today's exam is a crucial step in your journey to becoming a civil servant. Double-check your exam kit, carry all necessary documents, and remain calm and focused. All the best for UPSC Prelims 2025 Economic Times WhatsApp channel )
India Today
23-05-2025
- General
- India Today
UPSC Prelims 2025: Exam day rules, timings, and what to carry
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will conduct the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 on Sunday, May 25. The exam will be held in two shifts – the first beginning at 9:30 am and the second at 2:30 pm. Candidates must report early as entry to the examination centre will close 30 minutes before each session ensure a smooth exam experience, candidates must strictly follow the instructions issued by the Commission. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to carry, what to avoid, reporting protocols, and other crucial details for UPSC AND ITEMS TO CARRY E-Admit Card (Printout): This is mandatory for entry. Without a hard copy of the admit card, candidates will not be permitted to sit for the exam. Valid Photo ID: The ID must match the details provided in the admit card and should be carried for both (if required): Candidates whose e-admit card photo is unclear, missing, or lacks a name and date, must carry two passport-sized photos with name and date printed – one for each session – along with an Ballpoint Pen: Only answers marked using a black ballpoint pen will be Wrist Watch: Analog watches without any smart or digital functionality are ITEMS AT EXAM CENTREBags, handbags, or luggageExpensive items or valuablesMobile phones (even switched off)Smartwatches, fitness bands, or any digital deviceadvertisementBooks, notes, or any printed materialAny watch with a special feature or digital capabilityNote: There will be no facility to deposit personal belongings at the exam centre. Candidates must make arrangements outside the venue, as the Commission is not responsible for loss or EXAM RULES Latecomers will not be allowed entry after the gate closure timeViolating exam rules may lead to disqualification, FIRs, or permanent debarment from future UPSC examsAny discrepancy in the admit card (photo, QR code, name, etc.) must be reported to the UPSC immediately at uscsp-upsc@ AT A GLANCEMorning Session: 9:30 am– Entry closes at 9 amAfternoon Session: 2:30 pm– Entry closes at 2 pmUPSC aspirants are advised to stay calm, double-check their documents, and reach the centre well in advance to avoid last-minute panic. Following these instructions closely is essential not just for entry but also for maintaining the integrity of the examination.
Indian Express
23-05-2025
- General
- Indian Express
UPSC Prelims 2025 Special: Revision Checklist for important History, Art and Culture topics in news that aspirants shouldn't miss
Are You Prelims Ready? The UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025 is set to take place on May 25. In several subjects, integrating current affairs with static topics is essential—particularly in the expansive syllabus of History and Art & Culture. This connection is vital for every serious aspirant. Here's a checklist of important Culture-related highlights you shouldn't miss. Are they part of your revision plan yet? — 2024 marked 100 years since the discovery of the Indus Valley Civilization. The announcement of the discovery was made by Sir John Marshall, the English archaeologist and director-general of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), on 20 September 1924. — However, in the decades preceding Marshall's announcement in The Illustrated London News, several Indus sites apart from Harappa had already been explored. — In the late 1820s, when Charles Masson or James Lewis first encountered 'Haripah', he thought it to be ruins of the ancient city of Sangala, the capital of King Porus, who was defeated by Alexander the Great, when he invaded the Indian subcontinent in the fourth century BCE. — In 1831, Lieutenant Alexander Burns travelled to Harappa during his journey up the river Indus. Subsequently, he was followed by Alexander Cunningham, who, in 1861, had established the ASI, and became its first director-general. — Cunningham visited Harappa thrice — in 1853, 1856, and then again between 1872-73. Cunningham was the first to excavate Harappa. He believed Harappa to be the place where the Chinese traveller Xuanzang stayed for a few months. — In 1921-22, Harappa came to be excavated by Daya Ram Sahni, while Mohenjodaro was dug up by Rakhal Das Banerji in 1922-23. Both Sahni and Banerji discovered seals of the kind found by Cunningham decades earlier. — In June 1924, Marshall called for a special conference at the headquarters of the ASI in Simla, where the archaeologists of Harappa and Mohenjodaro assembled all the artifacts found by Sahni and Banerjee in these two places. It was soon evident that both these sites belonged to the same culture and civilisation, and Marshall announced his dramatic discovery to the world. — Recently, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin has announced a $1 million prize for deciphering the script of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The plethora of inscriptions on seals and terracotta tablets found at Indus sites contain a variety of symbols – human and animal motifs, and what scholars have identified as parts of a forgotten script. However, there is no agreement on the number of symbols in the supposed script. — The recent discovery of three colossal Buddha heads, a giant palm, an ancient wall, and some inscriptions have underlined the significance of Ratnagiri in Odisha's Jajpur district as a prominent Buddhist historical site. — Ratnagiri, literally 'Hill of Jewels', is located between two rivers, the Brahmani and its tributary Birupa, which join together a little ahead and proceed to fall in the Bay of Bengal amid the Bhitarkanika mangrove wetlands. — Ratnagiri, one of the most well excavated Buddhist sites in the state, is one of the three points of Odisha's famous Diamond Triangle along with Udaygiri and Lalitgiri. — The earliest historical structures excavated at the Diamond Triangle sites date to the 5th century CE, during the reign of Narasimhagupta Baladitya (c.495-530 CE). However Buddhism received the most patronage at these sites between the 8th and 10th centuries CE under the Bhauma-Kara (or Kara) dynasty. The sites started to decline by the 13th century. — It is believed to be an important early centre of the Vajrayana (or Tantrayana) school of Buddhism. Vajrayana Buddhism (Thunderbolt Vehicle) which involves mystical practices and concepts, eventually spread across Himalayan belt and beyond. — The Ratnagiri monastery is the only Buddhist monastery in India with a curvilinear roof. Historical evidence suggests that at its peak, the monastery was home to around 500 monks, who followed the Tantrayana form of Buddhism. — Archaeological excavations in Keeladi and a few other sites in Tamil Nadu have extended the timeline of the Sangam Era from 300 BCE to 600 BCE. — Recently, archaeologists working at Keeladi, a historic excavation site located 12 km southeast of Madurai in Tamil Nadu, have unearthed a crystal quartz weighing unit from the Sangam era. — In addition, archaeologists also found a terracotta hopscotch, an iron nail, black and red ware, and red slipped ware. Archaeologists also found an earthen snake figurine. — This discovery has stirred excitement among historians and archaeologists as weighing units in the past were primarily made of stones. — At a time when the excavation work is underway at the over 5,000-year-old Harappan site of Rakhigarhi in Haryana's Hisar district (located in the Ghaggar-Hakra river plain), the central government has declared mounds at the largest Harappan civilisation site at Rakhigarhi village in Hisar district protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. — Rakhigarhi is considered one of the two big Harappan sites in the country, with the other being Dholavira in Gujarat. — Earlier, a three-month long excavation at three of the seven mounds at the Harappan site in 2022 had revealed the structure of some houses, lanes and drainage system, and what could possibly be a jewellery-making unit apart from pieces of copper and gold jewellery, terracotta toys, besides thousands of earthen pots and seals. — The skeletons of two women found at mound number 7, were believed to be nearly 5,000 years old. Pots and other artefacts were found buried next to the remains, part of funerary rituals back, ASI officials had stated then. — The site was first excavated by Amarendra Nath of ASI. Earlier Mohenjodaro (Pakistan) was considered to be the largest Harappan site until Prof. Vasanth Shinde and his team started fresh excavations at Rakhigarhi. — The findings confirm both early and mature phases of this 5,000-years-old Harappan site of Rakhigarhi. An important find from this site is a cylindrical seal with 5 Harappan characters on one side and a symbol of an alligator on the other. — The ritual system is signified by an animal sacrificial pit lined with mud-brick and triangular and circular fire altars on the mud floor. A DNA study from skeletal remains from the cemetery at Rakhigarhi found that the Harappan people had an independent origin. The study clearly negates the theory of the Harappans having ancestral links with steppe pastoral or ancient Iranian farmers. — Rakhigarhi gives the first evidence of a double burial where the skeletons are clearly male (38) and female (25). — With the broad theme of 'Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas', tableaux of 16 States/Union Territories (UTs) and 10 Ministries/Departments of the Union Government were showcased during the 76th Republic Day Parade. — The Ministry of Tribal Affairs was awarded the Best Tableau from Central Ministries/Departments for its tableau based on 'Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh', commemorating the 150th birth anniversary year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda. — The tableau beautifully depicted the tribal ethos with a majestic Sal tree. — It was accompanied by the vibrant performance of Paika dance from Jharkhand and the rhythmic beats of Nagada from Chhattisgarh. Some other important elements of other states tableau were: Tripura: Eternal Reverence: The worship of 14 Deities in Tripura – Kharchi Puja — Old Agartala, 6 km from the current capital, is home to the Temple of Fourteen Gods, central to the annual Kharchi Puja. The idols were originally in Udaipur but were moved in 1770 A.D. when Maharaja Krishna Kishore Manikya shifted his capital to Old Agartala. Though the capital moved again in 1840, the deities remained in the temple. — Kharchi Puja, a week-long festival, draws thousands of devotees from across India. Held with great devotion and fanfare, the event includes rituals and a grand fair around the old palace, celebrating the cultural and spiritual heritage of Tripura. Karnataka: Lakkundi — The group of monuments at Lakkundi, and temples from surrounding places, date from the early 10th to 12th centuries CE and were built during the period of Kalyana Chaluykas or Western Chalukyas. — The Lakkundi group of monuments include the 11th century Kasi Visvesvara temple, the Manikesvara temple, the Nanneswara temple, the Brahma Jinalaya [the oldest temple in Lakkundi and dated to 1007 CE], and Musukina Bavi. Andhra Pradesh: Etikoppaka toys — 76th Republic Day, a particularly captivating tableau from Andhra Pradesh made its way down New Delhi's Kartavya Path, earning applause from onlookers. Adorned with meticulously crafted wooden toys, the display offered a glimpse into the ancient art of Etikoppaka Bommalu, a 400-year-old craft that has become synonymous with eco-friendly creativity and cultural heritage. — In Etikoppaka, a small village nestled in the southeastern state of Andhra Pradesh, artisans have perfected this tradition of toy-making. The toys, often mythological figures or animals, have long stood out for their seamless curves, vibrant hues, and delicate details. — At the heart of this tradition is the Ankudu tree (Wrightia tinctoria), whose soft, malleable wood provides the perfect canvas for the artisans' chisels. The tree's lightweight, smooth grain allows for intricate carvings, transforming raw timber into exquisite figurines. And in a world of increasing environmental consciousness, the Etikoppaka toys stand apart for their commitment to sustainability. Artisans use natural dyes extracted from plant-based sources like seeds, leaves, and bark, to colour the toys in hues of saffron, emerald, and indigo. The process culminates in a lacquer-turning technique, an ancient method where lac resin is used to seal the colours, creating a lustrous, non-toxic finish that is as safe for children as it is beautiful. — The toys' forms harken back to ancient civilizations — one can find echoes of Mohenjo Daro and Harappa. A government statement noted the range of items — mythological characters, musical instruments, household decorations — carved with the same meticulous care that has preserved the craft for centuries. — In 2017, the toys received official recognition with a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, a hallmark of their authenticity and cultural significance. — Prayagraj is hosting the Maha Kumbh this time, or the Poorna Kumbh, held every 12 years. — The Mahakumbh Mela occurs once every 12 years and is considered the most sacred of all Kumbh Melas. Whereas Kumbh Mela is celebrated every 3 years, rotating among four locations: Haridwar, Ujjain, Nashik, and Prayagraj, with each location hosting the Kumbh Mela in a cycle that ensures each site is featured once every 12 years. — The Mahakumbh Mela is primarily held at Prayagraj, where the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers converge. It is a grander event that draws a larger crowd compared to the regular Kumbh Melas. Kumbh Mela takes place at four sacred sites—Haridwar (Ganges), Ujjain (Shipra), Nashik (Godavari), and Prayagraj (Ganges-Yamuna-Saraswati). Each site has its unique significance and rituals associated with it. — Union Ministry of Culture and State Government of Gujarat, inaugurated a state-of-the-art museum and archaeological interpretation centre in Vadnagar. — Vadnagar, a city known by names like Vridhanagar, Anandapur, Anantapur and Nagar, is said to have been inhabited uninterruptedly for over 2,700 years. It made it to the tentative list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2022. — Its strategic location on ancient trade routes fostered a cosmopolitan society, evident in the town's architectural legacy, including the Kirti Toran, Hatkeshwar Mahadev Temple, and Sharmistha Lake, and the presence of various religious traditions. — The description of Vadnagar in UNESCO's Tentative List reads: 'The town represents a continuously evolving historic urban landscape/area which played a major role in the hinterland trade network of Western India. The continuity of the historic town proves its resilience and outstanding universal value unlike the sites like Harappa and Kalibangan, (Rajasthan) which were abandoned eventually.' — The study of the historical geography of ancient India reveals Vadnagar was situated at a strategic location of two major ancient trade routes: one joining central India with the Sindh and further northwest regions, while another connected the port towns on Gujarat's coast to northern India. Excavated cowry shells traced to the Maldives further imply involvement in overseas trade. A gold coin, believed to be from the Mamluk dynasty of Egypt that dated back to the 15th century, was also found. — Chinese traveller Xuanzang or Hieun Tsang is said to have visited Vadnagar around 641 AD, referring to it as 'Anandpur' in his writings, which also record how more than 1,000 monks of the Sammitiya School or Little Vehicle lived in 10 monasteries at Vadnagar, suggesting it was an important centre of Buddhist learning. — At the heart of the Nagpur violence (March 2025) was the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, which the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and other Hindutva bodies wanted to be removed. — This Mughal emperor of Delhi is buried in far-away Khuldabad, and even some Mughal officials have tombs bigger and grander than his. — Aurangzeb spent the last years of his life with his vast empire collapsing around him. He was facing an agrarian crisis, the nobility was slowly deserting him, and militarily, he was besieged by the increasingly dominant Marathas. It was on a campaign against the Marathas in the Deccan that death came to Aurangzeb, by then nearing 90 years of age. — 'It was Aurangzeb's own wish to be buried in a simple tomb, in keeping with Islamic austerity. His grave lies inside the complex of the dargah (shrine) of Sheikh Zainuddin, a 14th-century Chishti saint,' historian Ali Nadeem Rezavi of Aligarh Muslim University told The Indian Express. — Also buried in the complex are Azam Shah, one of Aurangzeb's sons who briefly succeeded him as emperor, the first Nizam of Hyderabad, Asaf Jah I (1724-48), and Asaf Jah's son, the second Nizam, Nasir Jung (1748-50). — Tholu means leather and Bommalata means dancing puppets. It is a shadow puppet theatre tradition of Andhra Pradesh which only has a handful families as practitioners since oldest story about this art form is of a person called Sree Krishna Devaranayanu, who used to travel across villages with this art. — Tholu Bommalata has been performed for centuries in the Southern part of India to play stories from ancient texts, such as the Mahabharata and Ramayana. — March 19 commemorates the anniversary of the Muzhara movement, a significant agrarian struggle in Punjab. — The movement began in the 1930s in villages of the erstwhile princely state of Patiala. It continued after independence, when the princely states in the region were reorganised into the Patiala and East Punjab States Union (PEPSU). The movement was later renamed the PEPSU Muzhara movement. — The muzharas were landless tenant farmers seeking ownership rights on the land they had cultivated for generations. The British also forced some small farmers to surrender the land they owned and work as muzharas. — According to Kulwant Singh Kishangarh, state secretary of BKU Dakaunda (Manjit Dhaner faction), muzharas were targeted by an oppressive feudal system that involved the participation of the landlords of the village. — Even after independence, the landlords continued demanding their share, but the movement intensified. By 1952, land reforms were implemented, finally granting ownership rights to tenant farmers. — In honour of Assam's oldest industry and the workers who made it flourish, over 8,600 women and men from the state's 'tea tribes' performed their traditional 'jhumoir' (also spelt 'jhumur' or 'jhumair') dance in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the heads of mission and ambassadors of over 60 countries. — It is performed by women while men play traditional musical instruments – is a popular traditional dance which has a central place in festivals celebrated by 'tea tribes', comprising 17% of Assam's population. — The 'tea tribes' or tea garden communities of Assam are multi-cultural and multi-ethnic communities of the descendants of tea garden workers – originally mostly from present-day Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal – who had settled in Assam in the 19th century to work in the tea gardens the British had set up. — The tea tribe community — comprising 17 per cent of the state's population — is a deciding factor in almost 40 Assam assembly seats out of the 126. The community is spread over 800 tea gardens plus several unorganised small gardens of Assam — living mostly in residential quarters adjacent to gardens. — PM Modi gifted French President Macron a traditional Dokra artwork of musicians playing Indian instruments. — Dokra craft, a technique older than 4000 years, is a traditional metal-casting technique from Chhattisgarh. The artform requires precise and intricate craftmanship, and the structures are usually made of brass, nickel and zinc alloys. — Abathsahayeshwarar Temple Conservation Project, Thukkatchi, Tamil Nadu, India has been chosen to receive the UNESCO Award of Distinction – 2023. It is a 1300 year old temple which is believed to have been constructed by Kings Vikrama Chola and Kulothunga Chola. (Source: — The theme of the backdrop for this year's Rashtriya Ekta Divas celebrations at Kevadiya, Gujarat, is the historic Raigad Fort, a symbol of Maratha pride and architectural brilliance. — Raigad, one of the 12 forts nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status under the 'Maratha Military Landscapes of India,' stands out as a quintessential example of Maratha hill fort architecture and served as the capital fort of the Maratha Empire. — Captured in 1653 CE by Shivaji Maharaj's forces from the Mores and reconstructed under the guidance of Hiroji Indulkar, Raigad was transformed into a formidable stronghold and administrative center. — It was on this very fort, on 6th June 1674 CE, that Shivaji Maharaj held his grand coronation and assumed the title of 'Chhatrapati.' British historian Grant Duff famously likened Raigad to the Rock of Gibraltar, calling it the 'Gibraltar of the East,' highlighting its strategic and symbolic significance in Indian history. — November 15, 2024, celebrated as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas, marked the 150th birth anniversary celebration of the tribal icon – Birsa Munda, the leader of Munda Rebellion (Ulgulan movement). — Birsa Munda launched the Ulgulan movement (Munda rebellion) in 1899, using weapons and guerrilla warfare to drive out foreigners. He encouraged the tribals to follow the Birsa Raj and not comply with colonial laws and rent payments. It was one of the most organised and widespread tribal revolts, with clear objectives: to overthrow the British government, expel outsiders from the region, and establish an independent Munda state. — Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that languages in India are not in competition but in cooperation, and there should be no attempts to divide the nation in the name of language. Rajnath was speaking at an event organised to commemorate Tamil warrior queen Rani Velu Nachiyar, believed to be among the first women rulers who fought against British rule. — Born in 1730 to King Chellamuthu Sethupathy and Queen Sakandhimuthal of the Ramnad kingdom in present-day Tamil Nadu, Velu Nachiyar was their sole heir. She was raised like a prince and learned horse riding, archery and South Indian martial arts such as kalaripayattu and silambam. The princess was a polyglot and well-versed in military strategy. — In 1746, she married Muthu Vaduganatha Periyavudaya Thevar, acting as a 'friend, philosopher and guide' to the prince of Sivagangai. Despite attempts to fortify the kingdom, Sivagangai was invaded in 1772 by the British East India Company, which worked with the son of the Nawab of Arcot. King Muthu Vaduganathar lost his life in the battle. —Velu Nachiyar and her daughter Vellachi fled to safer ground in Dindigul, where they lived under the protection of Mysore Sultan Hyder Ali for eight years. Displaced from her kingdom, the queen plotted her revenge and enlisted the support of Hyder Ali and Gopala Naicker, the leader of the Marudu brothers. The siblings rebelled against the EIC and were later captured and executed. — Naicker was a prominent military commander who supported Velu Nachiyar in her fight against the British. He extended military support, while Hyder Ali helped her train and organise her army in exile. — In 1780, Velu Nachiyar fought against the British and reclaimed her kingdom. She ruled for a decade before passing it to her daughter in 1790. She died in 1796. — Today, Velu Nachiyar is regarded as Tamil Nadu's 'Veeramangai' or brave lady, and among the first Indian queens to fight against British colonial power in India. TVK members earlier told The Indian Express that she inspired Vijay's 'grit to fight a formidable enemy'. — The Odisha government announced a year of celebrations for the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Harekrushna Mahatab, a former Chief Minister of the state and towering Odia icon. — When Mahatma Gandhi launched the Non-Cooperation Movement in 1920, the Sammilani decided to join it. Mahatab, who was then a student of Cuttack's Ravenshaw College, was deeply influenced by the Mahatma, and plunged into the freedom struggle, and was jailed by the British several times. — Mahatab held positions in the Utkal Pradesh Congress Committee and the Congress Working Committee. In the 1920s, he led the Praja Mandal Movement in Odisha, known as the Gadjat Praja Movement, a people's movement against local aristocrats and the British in the princely states. — The Union Cabinet extended the 'classical language' tag to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia already enjoy this status. Previously, only six languages held the 'Classical' status: Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), and Odia (2014). — The Ministry of Home Affairs initially granted classical status to the Tamil and Sanskrit languages. Later, the Ministry of Culture assumed responsibility for further implementations and future recognitions. — 'Sinhtoo' — the ancient folk dance of the Hatti community settled in the remote Giri region of Sirmaur district was selected for the first time to be performed at the 76th Republic Day parade in Delhi. — Sinhtoo is a mask dance in which artists wear specially crafted masks of various animals and costumes for the performance. In the Pahari (hilly) dialect, a lion cub is called Sinhtoo, which is why performers wearing lion masks always take centre stage in the dance. — Among the highlights of the Islamic Arts Biennale 2025, which opens at the Western Hajj Terminal of King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah on Saturday (January 25) will be the Kiswah of the Holy Kaaba in Mecca (Makkah). — This will be the first time that the full Kiswah will be displayed outside the holy city, according to a release issued by the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, which organises the Islamic Arts Biennale. — The Kiswah, literally 'robe', is the intricately-embroidered black cloth that covers the Kaaba, the cubical stone structure at the centre of the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, the holiest site in Islam. — Parliament on February 11 saw an uproar over 22 illustrations in the Constitution. BJP MP Radha Mohan Das Agrawal, during the Zero Hour, said the 22 illustrations are missing in most copies of the Constitution being sold today. — While the Constitution was handwritten by calligrapher Prem Behari Narain Raizada, the paintings were conceived and implemented in Santiniketan by artist-pedagogue Nandalal Bose and his team. — When placed in sequence, the narrative scheme of the paintings represents different periods in Indian history, from the Indus Valley civilisation to the freedom struggle, also including scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. — Two copies of the Constitution, one in English and one in Hindi, are handwritten and bear the paintings. Today, they are placed in a special helium-filled case in the Indian Parliament Library. — On the Constitution, Bose worked with a team of collaborators which included close family members, his students and fellow-artists, including Kripal Singh Shekhawat, A Perumal, and Direndrakrishna Deb Burman. — The Preamble page has intricate patterns sketched by Beohar Rammanohar Sinha and bears his signature, while Dinanath Bhargava sketched the National Emblem, the Lion Capital of Ashoka. — The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) organised the third edition of 'Kashi Tamil Sangamam' between February 15 and 24. — The Kashi Tamil Sangamam is an event of the government of India's Ministry of Education to create awareness about the cultural connections between the two centres of learning and culture in ancient India – by facilitating people-to-people connections across different walks of life. — The main theme of this edition of Kashi Tamil Sangamam will be to highlight the significant contributions of Sage Agasthyar to the Siddha System of Medicine (Bharatiya Chikistsa), Classical Tamil literature and to the cultural unity of the Nation. — The Battle of Karnal, on February 24, 1739, saw Persian emperor Nadir Shah handing a crushing defeat to the forces of Mughal emperor Muhammad Shah Rangila, effectively ending Mughal power in India. — CISF Regional Training Centre in Thakkolam was renamed after the great warrior of the Chola dynasty, Rajaditya Chola. He earned the title 'Yanaimel Thunjiya Devar', meaning 'The king who died on the back of an elephant'. He died in the battle against the Rashtrakutas called Battle of Thakkolam. (PIB) — Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the 25th edition of Jahan-e-Khusrau in Delhi, praising the Sufi tradition and Amir Khusrau. — Known as Tuti-yi-Hind, the 'Parrot of India', Amir Khusrau is regarded as a father figure of North India's syncretic Ganga-Jamuni culture. He made lasting contributions to Indian classical music, Sufi qawwali, and Persian literature, and is also credited for developing Hindavi, a precursor to modern Hindi and Urdu. — Much of what we know about Khusrau comes from his own writings, which include autobiographical information. Many details of his life remain unknown or steeped in legend. — Khusrau's father likely came to India from Central Asia in the early 13th century, as the Mongol hordes of Genghis Khan ravaged Islamic Transoxiana (corresponding to parts of modern-day Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, southern Kazakhstan,Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan). He entered the service of Sultan Iltutmish (1211-36), and married the daughter of an Indian Muslim. The couple's second child, Abu'l Hasan Yamin ud-Din Khusrau, was born in 1253. — He became a professional poet at the age of 20 and continued in this role until his death. He initially served princes and nobles before becoming a permanent fixture in the court of the Delhi Sultan. — He relied heavily on the ongoing patronage of his patron and faced significant competition. Amir Khusrau served at least five Sultans — Muiz ud din Qaiqabad, Jalaluddin Khalji, Alauddin Khalji, Qutbuddin Mubarak Shah, and Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq — and many other powerful patrons over five decades, which testifies to the quality of his poetry. He wrote in Persian, the language of the court, as well as Hindavi. — Khusrau's poetry, both in form and content, heavily borrowed from Persian and Turkic influences, as well as local elements. This made him a significant figure in promoting a syncretic Hindu-Muslim culture known as Ganga-Jamuni tehzeeb. — Khusrau is also said to be instrumental in the development of modern Indian classical music — he is credited with crafting dozens of ragas, creating ornate khayal music, and inventing the sitar and tabla, even though evidence for this is limited. — Khusrau was the most beloved disciple of the Chishti Sheikh Nizamuddin Auliya. He passed away in 1325. Seven hundred years after his death, the lyrical beauty, sophisticated wordplay, and exploration of diverse themes in Khusrau's poetry continue to enchant audiences. — Khusrau's ghazals and qawwalis are today sung in both sacred and secular contexts, at sufi dargahs and Bollywood musicals. His most popular compositions include Chhaap Tilak, Zehal-e-Maskeen, and Sakal Ban Phool Rahi Sarson. — Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm welcome by the Indian diaspora as he landed in Mauritius on Tuesday, with women from the community honouring him through a traditional Bihari cultural performance called Geet Gawai. — BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla, over a post on X (formerly Twitter), shared visuals from the grand welcome accorded to PM Modi in the island nation, and described Geet Gawai as 'a traditional Bhojpuri musical ensemble that embodies the rich cultural heritage brought to Mauritius by women from the Bhojpuri belt of India.' — The Mudumal megalithic menhirs in Telangana's Narayanpet district will soon be the second UNESCO World Heritage Site in the state, after being one six Indian sites to be added to the tentative list by the World Heritage Centre in 2025. — A menhir is a standing or an upright stone, which is usually tapered at the top. It is man-made, in that it is sculpted and placed by humans, and usually quite large — the largest surviving menhir, the Grand Menhir Brisé or the Great Broken Menhir in Brittany, France, once stood at 20.6 m tall. — The Mudumal site has been described as a 'megalithic astronomical observatory' by the UNESCO dossier. '… Some menhirs are aligned with the rising and setting sun during the summer and winter solstices, suggesting their use as an ancient observatory,' the dossier says. Today, the Mudumal menhirs are closely associated with local legend, with 'one particular menhir being worshipped as Goddess Yellamma'. — Adivasis in Jharkhand and the larger Chhotanagpur region welcome the new year and the spring season with the Sarhul festival. — Sarhul, literally 'worship of the Sal tree', is among the most revered Adivasi festivals. It is rooted in nature worship and celebrates the symbolic union of the Sun and the Earth. A male priest from the village (pahan) plays the role of the Sun, while his wife (pahen) becomes the Earth. — The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, has revived two rare and significant Ayurvedic manuscripts—Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu. — About the Manuscripts Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu: Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, this previously unpublished lexicon consists of eighteen chapters offering in-depth knowledge on drug synonyms, therapeutic actions, and medicinal properties. A widely referenced text in Maharashtra until the 19th century, it draws from classical Nighaṇṭus like Dhanvantari and Raja Nighaṇṭu while documenting numerous novel medicinal substances from plant, mineral, and animal origins. — About the Dravyanamākara Nighaṇṭu: Attributed to Bhisma Vaidya, this unique work serves as a standalone appendix to the Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu, focusing exclusively on homonyms of drug and plant names—a complex area of study vital to Ayurveda. (Source: — Every year in late April, the twin villages of Saloor-Dungra in the state of Uttarakhand (northern India) are marked by Ramman, a religious festival in honour of the tutelary god, Bhumiyal Devta, a local divinity whose temple houses most of the festivities. — The UNESCO-recognised Ramman festival, a spectacular mix of ritual, theatre, and folk celebration. ( — As part of his trip to Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 6, 2025 visited the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple at the historic city of Anuradhapura. — The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree is considered the oldest living cultivated plant in the world, and is believed to have grown from a branch that an Indian princess carried to Sri Lanka. — This Bo (Ficus religiosa, Pipal in Hindi) tree is believed to have grown from a branch of the tree in Bodhgaya (in present-day Bihar) under which Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment. The branch was carried to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta (or Sanghamitra), the Mauryan king Ashoka's daughter and Buddhist nun. — Her arrival in Sri Lanka with the tree is still celebrated as Uduvapa Poya, an annual festival observed on a full moon night in December. The tree, along with the other Buddhist shrines in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, is a major pilgrimage centre for Buddhists. — Anuradhapura is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 'Anuradhapura, a Ceylonese political and religious capital that flourished for 1,300 years, was abandoned after an invasion in 993 CE. Hidden away in dense jungle for many years, the splendid site, with its palaces, monasteries and monuments, is now accessible once again,' the UNESCO website says. The invasion in 993 CE was by the Chola empire of south India. — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on January 17 paid tribute at a function organised at the Namdhari Shaheed Smarak in Malerkotla to mark the Kuka martyrs' day. On January 17 and 18, 1872, some 66 Namdhari Sikhs, also known as Kukas, were executed — placed in front of cannons and blown up — in the town. — Contrary to popular perceptions, Indians continued to pick up arms against the British in the decades following the Rebellion of 1857. These movements were localised, and hence put down easily by the colonial power. — One such rebellion was led by Namdharis in Punjab. Also called kukas because of their trademark high-pitch style of reciting the Gurbani — kook in Punjabi refers to 'screaming' or 'crying' — the Namdharis were a Sikh sect founded by Satguru Ram Singh in Ludhiana on April 12, 1857. — The 1st India Maritime Heritage Conclave (IMHC 2024) centered around the theme, 'Towards Understanding India's Position in Global Maritime History.' — The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is developing a National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) at Lothal. It is one of the prominent cities of the ancient Harappan civilization dating to 2600 BCE. Here, archaeological excavations have discovered the oldest manmade dockyard, over 5000 years old. — The first-ever Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav was celebrated from December 6th to 8th, 2024, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, Delhi. — It aimed to showcase the beauty, diversity, and promise of the eight states of Northeast India—Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, Tripura, and Sikkim. It offers a dynamic stage for showcasing Northeast India's vibrant textile sector, tourism opportunities, traditional craftsmanship, and distinctive Geographical Indication (GI) tagged products. (PIB) — It is Manipur's single-largest tribe. In resolutions passed at a 'Thadou Convention' held in Guwahati on November 1-2, a section of the community 'disowned' the term Kuki, condemned 'escalating Kuki supremacy' and supported an NRC (National Register of Citizens) exercise in Manipur to secure 'indigenous communities'. — A portion of the Virupaksha temple in Karnataka collapsed following torrential rains on Tuesday (May 21, 2024). Located at the historical site of Hampi, the temple's pavilion or the saalu mantap was damaged, leading some conservationists to blame Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials for allegedly neglecting its protection and conservation. — A nationally protected monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the temple is believed to have its origins in the 7th century. — Virupaksha temple gained prominence and underwent extensive expansion in the 14th century during the Vijayanagara Empire (1336 to 1646). — Founded by Harihara I of the Sangama dynasty, the Vijayanagara empire expanded from a strategic position on the banks of the Tungabhadra river to become one of the most powerful kingdoms of its time. — The temple flourished under the patronage of the Vijayanagara rulers, who were great builders and patrons of art. It became a vital centre for the religious and cultural activities of its time. — It is a prime example of Dravidian temple architecture, characterised by its grand gopurams (towering gateways), the shikhara towering over the sanctum sanctorum, its intricate carvings and pillared halls. Richly adorned with carvings and sculptures, the gopuram depicts various deities, mythological scenes and animals. — Three Indian literary works, Ramcharitmanas, Panchatantra, and Sahṛdayaloka-Locana, were added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Asia-Pacific Regional Register during the tenth meeting of the Memory of the World Committee for Asia and the Pacific (MOWCAP), held in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia in 2024. — Two Ramacharitmanas manuscripts were sent to UNESCO — one authored by Goswami Tulsidas and the other one written in Arabic in the 18th century, highlighting the appeal of the text for West Asia and other parts of the world as well, according to Gaur. — The Panchatantra fables were zeroed in owing to their universal moral values. The 15th-century Sahṛdayaloka-Locana, by Kashmiri scholars Acharya Anandvardhan and Abhinavagupta, was chosen because of its aesthetics. — Manuscripts of the Bhagavad Gita and Bharata's Natyashastra are among the 74 new additions to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register in 2025 — Traditionally attributed to the sage Bharata, Natyashastra is an ancient Sanskrit treatise on performing arts. Comprising 36,000 verses, the 'Naṭyashastra embodies a comprehensive set of rules that define natya (drama), abhinaya (performance), rasa (aesthetic experience), bhava (emotion), sangita (music),' the UNESCO citation says. — Traditionally attributed to the sage Vyasa, Bhagavad Gita is a Sanskrit scripture comprising 700 verses that are organised in 18 chapters, embedded in the sixth book (Bhishma Parva) of the epic poem Mahabharata. 'Bhagavad Gita is a central text in the continuous, cumulative ancient intellectual Indian tradition, synthesising various thought movements such as, Vedic, Buddhist, Jain, and Charvaka,' the UNESCO citation says. — Matabari Pera of Tripura – a dairy-based confectionary item traditionally served as prasad at the Tripurasundari temple in Gomati district — Pachra of Tripura – a handwoven cloth used by the state's Indigenous communities. — The Gharchola, a traditional Gujarati wedding sari, has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Government of India. — Kannadippaya a unique handwoven mat from Kerala, has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. This recognition is significant because it is the first tribal handicraft from Kerala to receive this honor. — West Bengal's latest GI tags awarded to seven products, including Nolen Gur Sandesh, Murshidabad Chhanabora, and Radhunipagal Rice, were announced in April 2025. — Tamil Nadu's Kumbakonam vetrilai (Kumbakonam betel leaf) and Thovalai maanikka maalai have been given the Geographical Indications (GI) tag. The Kumbakonam betel leaf is found in the Cauvery Delta region. The Thovalai maanikka maalai is a special type of garland that is made only in Thovalai. It comes in a range of shapes and sizes, standing out from other garlands due to its unique technique and gem-like appearance. ( — The 50th edition of the famous Khajuraho Dance Festival (KDF) commenced from February 20 to February 26. It was held at the Kandariya Mahadev Temple and Devi Jagadamba Temple inside the Western Temple Group complex — an architectural marvel of the Chandela era. — The Gauhati High Court struck down a notification issued by the Assam government in January attempting to revive the practices of traditional buffalo and bulbul (songbird) fights during Magh Bihu Assam. These practices have been banned for a decade. — The court observed that the Assam government had sought to override provisions of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Supreme Court's 2014 judgement which outlawed the use of bulls as performing animals in jallikattu, kambala and bullock cart races. — Buffalo fights are held in different parts of Assam during Magh Bihu, with Ahatguri in Nagaon district being the biggest centre. Bulbul fights, on the other hand, are an attraction at the Hayagriv Madhab Mandir in Hajo, around 30 km from Guwahati. — Temple authorities say this practice has been around for centuries and was conducted by regents of the Ahom dynasty (13th to 19th century). Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter and stay updated with the news cues from the past week. The UPSC articles of Indian Express is now on Telegram. Join our Telegram channel- Indian Express UPSC Hub and stay updated with the latest Updates. Manas Srivastava is currently working as Senior Copy Editor with The Indian Express (digital) and leads a unique initiative of IE - UPSC Essentials. He majorly writes on UPSC, other competitive exams and education-related projects. In the past, Manas has represented India at the G-20 Youth Summit in Mexico. He is a former member of the Youth Council, GOI. A two-time topper/gold medallist in History (both in graduation and post-graduation) from Delhi University, he has mentored and taught UPSC aspirants for more than four years. His diverse role in The Indian Express consists of writing, editing, anchoring/ hosting, interviewing experts, and curating and simplifying news for the benefit of students. He hosts the YouTube talk show called 'Art and Culture with Devdutt Pattanaik' and a LIVE series on Instagram and YouTube called 'You Ask We Answer'.His talks on 'How to read a newspaper' focus on newspaper reading as an essential habit for students. His articles and videos aim at finding solutions to the general queries of students and hence he believes in being students' editor, preparing them not just for any exam but helping them to become informed citizens. This is where he makes his teaching profession meet journalism. He is also the editor of UPSC Essentials' monthly magazine for the aspirants. He is a recipient of the Dip Chand Memorial Award, the Lala Ram Mohan Prize and Prof. Papiya Ghosh Memorial Prize for academic excellence. He was also awarded the University's Post-Graduate Scholarship for pursuing M.A. in History where he chose to specialise in Ancient India due to his keen interest in Archaeology. He has also successfully completed a Certificate course on Women's Studies by the Women's Studies Development Centre, DU. As a part of N.S.S in the past, Manas has worked with national and international organisations and has shown keen interest and active participation in Social Service. He has led and been a part of projects involving areas such as gender sensitisation, persons with disability, helping slum dwellers, environment, adopting our heritage programme. He has also presented a case study on 'Psychological stress among students' at ICSQCC- Sri Lanka. As a compere for seminars and other events he likes to keep his orating hobby alive. His interests also lie in International Relations, Governance, Social issues, Essays and poetry. ... Read More
