Relevance for UPSC (GS Paper III – Defence & Security) • Source: Indian Defence Review

Swedish defence firm Saab has unveiled the A26 submarine, claimed to be the world’s first fifth-generation submarine, introducing major advances in stealth, endurance, and modular undersea warfare.

What Are Fifth-Generation Submarines?

They represent the latest class of high-stealth, long-endurance, multi-mission platforms built for networked maritime warfare.

Key Features

Feature / Concept

Why It Matters
Extreme Stealth Ultra-low acoustic signatures to avoid sonar.
Air-Independent Propulsion Allows weeks of submerged, silent operation.
Multi-Mission Portal (A26) Launches UUVs, divers, special-ops gear.
Network-Centric Warfare Real-time data links with ships, aircraft, satellites.
Modular Upgrades Easy integration of new sensors, weapons, missions.
Precision Strike Torpedoes and cruise missiles with high accuracy.

Significance

For the World

  • Sets the benchmark for next-gen undersea warfare.
  • Enhances deterrence in sensitive regions (Baltic, Indo-Pacific).
  • Expands use of unmanned underwater vehicles in naval operations.

For India

  • Provides reference for Project-75 Alpha nuclear attack submarines.
  • Supports Indian Ocean surveillance through UUV-based reconnaissance.
  • Strengthens deterrence against China–Pakistan’s growing submarine fleets.

Title: Regenerative Farming: PepsiCo’s 2030 Global Target
 Relevance for UPSC (GS Paper III – Environment & Agriculture) • Source: Economic Times

PepsiCo announced that it aims to scale regenerative farming across 10 million acres globally by 2030, including India, as part of its sustainable agriculture programme.

What is Regenerative Farming?

A set of farming practices that restore soil health, increase biodiversity, and enhance ecosystem functions while maintaining productivity.

Key Concepts 

Concept / Practice

Importance
Minimal / No Tillage Reduces soil erosion; improves soil structure.
Cover Cropping Adds organic matter; enhances soil carbon.
Crop Rotation Breaks pest cycles; improves nutrient balance.
Agroforestry Increases biodiversity; improves microclimate.
Organic Inputs Reduces chemical dependence; boosts soil microbes.
Carbon Sequestration Stores atmospheric carbon in soils.

Need & Significance

Aspect

Why It Matters
Soil Health India loses ~5.3 billion tonnes of soil annually—regeneration helps replenish fertility.
Climate Action (SDG 13) Sequesters carbon, lowers emissions.
Water Efficiency (SDG 6) Better soil structure improves water retention.
Farmer Resilience Reduces input costs and stabilises yields.
Private Sector Role Large companies adopting sustainable sourcing strengthen climate-smart agriculture.

Prelims Practice Question

Consider the following statements regarding regenerative farming:

  1. It focuses on improving soil health through practices like crop rotation and cover cropping.
  2. It increases carbon sequestration in soils.
  3. It mandates complete elimination of all chemical fertilisers.

How many statements are correct?
 A. Only one B. Only two C. All three D. None

Answer: B (Statements 1 and 2 are correct; 3 is incorrect.)

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