Recent advances have enabled long-term data storage in glass using laser-based nanostructuring. Explain the working principle of glass-based data storage technology and examine its potential advantages and limitations compared to conventional magnetic and solid-state storage systems.

“Artificial Intelligence-enabled startups are increasingly addressing gaps in healthcare and sports services in India, especially in underserved areas.”
Examine the potential and challenges of such AI-based solutions in improving accessibility, affordability, and quality of human development services.

Stubble burning has emerged as a recurring source of air pollution in North India despite technological monitoring measures. Examine the challenges in detecting and controlling farm fires and suggest a comprehensive strategy to address the problem.

Discuss the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz in global geopolitics. How do Iran–USA tensions over the nuclear issue impact global energy security and regional stability?

India is considering the induction of the H125M helicopter to replace its aging Cheetah and Chetak fleets.
Discuss the strategic significance of helicopter modernisation for India’s armed forces. Examine how indigenous manufacturing of platforms like the H125M aligns with India’s indigenisation and defence self-reliance objectives.

The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 has amended provisions of the Right to Information framework regarding disclosure of personal information. Examine whether prioritising data privacy over transparency affects democratic accountability in India.

“India’s push towards a bioeconomy through bio-based chemicals and industrial enzymes can reduce import dependence on petrochemicals while promoting sustainable manufacturing.”
Examine this statement in the context of the BioE3 policy. Discuss opportunities, challenges, and policy measures required for scaling the sector in India.

Discuss the rationale behind introducing graded Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limits within sectoral caps in India. How can such a framework balance economic growth with strategic autonomy?

Discuss the significance of the relocation of the Prime Minister’s Office to the Seva Teerth complex under the Central Vista Redevelopment Project. How do the associated welfare and economic measures reflect the government’s vision of governance and development?

“The conservation of species in India has increasingly shifted from a species-centric approach to a landscape and community-based model.”
Examine this statement in the context of conservation initiatives for species such as the Snow Leopard, Asiatic Cheetah and Gangetic River Dolphin.

Discuss the need for a permanent and objective framework for state reorganisation in India. How have the criteria for state formation evolved from linguistic considerations to developmental and administrative concerns?

Discuss the significance of the PM-SURAJ Portal in promoting inclusive entrepreneurship among marginalized communities in India.

India and Greece have recently strengthened their defence cooperation. Examine the significance of this development for India’s strategic interests in the Indian Ocean Region and its defence indigenisation goals.

What are biosimilars? Discuss how the Biopharma Shakti initiative can help improve access to biological therapies in India.

“The approval of irrigation projects within tiger reserves reflects the complex trade-off between developmental needs and wildlife conservation.”
Discuss this statement with reference to the Kopra irrigation project in the Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve.

Examine the constitutional tension between the Right to be Forgotten and the freedom of the press in India. How should courts balance individual dignity with the public’s right to know in the digital age?

The Sixteenth Finance Commission has introduced “Contribution to GDP” as a new criterion for horizontal devolution of taxes.
Explain the rationale behind this inclusion and discuss how the Commission attempted to balance efficiency with equity.

“The 16th Finance Commission’s recommendations reflect a shift from unconditional transfers to conditional fiscal discipline.”
Discuss with reference to grants-in-aid and fiscal roadmap recommendations.

Explain the concept of the Power Gap Index and assess its relevance for India’s regional and global strategic positioning.

“The Economic Survey 2025–26 flags digital addiction as a public health challenge with serious implications for India’s demographic dividend and long-term economic productivity.”
Critically examine the causes and consequences of digital addiction in India.
Discuss the policy and institutional measures suggested to balance digital growth with digital wellness.