CIVIL SERVICE INFO

Tehran’s Nuclear Seesaw: Balancing Military Escalation and Diplomatic Realpolitik The Iranian nuclear issue has resurfaced as a primary friction point in global forensics, shifting from the diplomacy of the JCPOA (2015) to recent military escalations. Under the current U.S. administration in 2026, the strategy has pivoted from precision strikes on Iranian nuclear sites to a renewed, albeit complex, diplomatic pursuit in Muscat. Key Geopolitical Dynamics  * The U.S. Shift: After military strikes in 2025, the U.S. is now exploring a "new JCPOA." This highlights a paradoxical approach of "maximum pressure" coupled with an openness to bilateral deal-making.  * Regional Stance: Despite deep-seated rivalries, Arab Gulf powers—having invested heavily in U.S. stability—are prioritizing de-escalation. They fear regional contagion and the kinetic capacity of Iran to retaliate against U.S. assets on their soil.  * Internal Iranian Shifts: Domestic pressure and external strikes...

The Hollowed Order: Multilateralism in an Era of Coercion The post-1945 international order, anchored by the United Nations and the conviction that rule of law could restrain raw power, is currently facing an existential crisis. As Shashi Tharoor argues, we are transitioning from a world of "rules" back to a world of "might," where global norms are increasingly treated as optional suggestions rather than binding commitments. The Erosion of Multilateralism For decades, the liberal international order relied on a "patchwork of norms"—sovereign equality, collective security, and open trade. Today, this foundation is crumbling due to:  * Great Power Exceptionalism: Major powers now openly embrace a "might is right" sensibility, bypassing international law when it suits their interests.  * Institutional Paralysis: Bodies like the UN are starved of legitimacy and resources, frequently paralyzed by vetoes and a lack of political will from ...

tobacco control in India  tobacco control in India, based on the provided report. This is particularly relevant for UPSC General Studies Paper II (Health & Governance) and Paper III (Economy). Tobacco Control in India: The Taxation and Regulation Challenge Despite being the world’s second-largest consumer and producer of tobacco, India’s fiscal measures to curb consumption are currently falling short of international benchmarks. While taxes have risen, the "affordability" of tobacco products remains a significant hurdle in public health efforts. 1. The Current Taxation Gap The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that taxes should constitute at least 75% of the retail price of tobacco products to effectively deter consumption. In India:  * Cigarettes: Recent tax hikes account for only 53% of the retail price.  * Beedis: The GST rate on beedis—which are more prevalent than cigarettes—has been reduced to 18%.  * The Problem: Because tax increases ...

  the Shore Temple in Mahabalipuram, a crown jewel of Pallava architecture a structured article tailored for UPSC Civil Services Examination (Art & Culture) preparation. Headline: Shore Temple: This 8th-Century Pallava Dynasty Shiva Temple is in Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu  * Introduction : Located on the shores of the Bay of Bengal in Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram), the Shore Temple is one of India’s oldest and most historical temples. It is significant not just religiously, but as a priceless example of Indian architecture, maritime history, and cultural heritage. A breakwater has been built around it to protect it from sea waves.  * Historical Background: Construction took place in the 8th century (approx. 700–728 AD) during the reign of Pallava ruler Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha). During this era, Pallava rulers were taking Dravidian architecture to new heights. Mahabali was a major port city at the time, serving maritime trade.  * Religious Signifi...

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The challenges and significance of indigenous in India's aviation sector  This article, titled "Plane, Not Simple," provides a critical analysis of India's aviation landscape, highlighting the strategic necessity and challenges of indigenous aircraft manufacturing. It is highly relevant for UPSC subjects like Economy (Infrastructure, Indigenization of Technology) and Internal Security. ## Key Highlights for UPSC ### 1. The Strategic Deficit  * Military Needs: India faces dwindling fighter jet squadrons. While the procurement of 114 Rafale jets from France is a priority, it faces geopolitical hurdles.  * Geopolitical Risks (ITAR): The American acquisition of French supplier LMB Aerospace means Rafale sales could fall under US ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations). This could require US waivers for India to buy French platforms, highlighting the risks of dependency on foreign supply chains.  * Civilian Demand: India has an order book of over 2,00...