1.Tangkhul Hui and Kombai to be Added to Assam Rifles Dog Squad 2.Dal Lake 3. Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati 4. Dornier 228 5.India Set to Get Two New Telescopes in Ladakh

1.Tangkhul Hui and Kombai to be Added to Assam Rifles Dog Squad

Why in News?

• Assam Rifles is planning to induct two indigenous dog breeds—Tangkhul Hui (Manipur) and Kombai (Tamil Nadu)—into its dog squad.
• The move aims to reduce long-term dependence on foreign breeds such as German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois and promote indigenous working dogs under the broader spirit of self-reliance.

About Assam Rifles Dog Squad

Assam Rifles, India’s oldest paramilitary force (established in 1835), operates a dedicated Assam Rifles Dog Training Centre (ARDTC) at Jorhat, Assam.

Trained dogs support security operations in the Northeast and border areas in the following roles:

• Trackers – Follow human or animal trails across difficult terrain.
• Guard Dogs – Provide security to camps, convoys, and border posts.
• Detection Dogs – Identify hidden arms, explosives, and narcotics.

Tangkhul Hui (Haofa) – Manipur

• Tangkhul Hui, also known as Haofa, is an indigenous working dog traditionally raised by the Tangkhul community in Ukhrul district of Manipur.
• Historically, it was used for hunting in hilly terrain.
• Since 2022, it has been part of a pilot project under Assam Rifles, with six dogs trained and deployed mainly for narcotics detection.

Key Characteristics

• Highly disease-resistant
• Strong stamina and endurance (more than speed)
• Intelligent and alert watchdog
• Typically black with white markings
• Exists in two size varieties
• Rare breed with limited population

Its adaptability to the Northeast terrain makes it suitable for counter-insurgency and anti-narcotics operations.

Kombai (Polygar Dog) – Tamil NaduBackgroundKombai is a strong indigenous working dog from Theni district of Tamil Nadu, named after Kombai town. Traditionally, it was used for guarding property and occasionally for hunting large game.The first batch (2 males and 8 females) is scheduled for induction in April 2026. Full integration of both breeds is expected by March 2027.Key CharacteristicsBroad, muscular, and athletic buildShort, smooth reddish-brown coatDistinct black mask-like muzzleLoyal and highly protective temperamentStrong guarding instinctIts physical strength and guarding ability make it suitable for camp security and perimeter protection roles.

Significance of the Move

• Promotes indigenous breeds and biodiversity conservation.
• Reduces dependency on imported breeds.
• Enhances operational suitability in local climatic conditions.
• Supports “Atmanirbhar” approach in defence and security.
• Provides recognition and revival of rare native dog breeds.

Challenges

• Limited population of indigenous breeds.
• Need for structured breeding and scientific temperament assessment.
• Training standardisation compared to globally established working breeds.

Way Forward

• Develop a national registry and conservation program for indigenous working dog breeds.
• Encourage collaboration between security forces, veterinary universities, and local breeders.
• Standardise scientific training modules for Indian breeds.
• Promote indigenous breeds for disaster response and civil security roles as well.

The induction of Tangkhul Hui and Kombai marks a strategic shift towards operational self-reliance while preserving India’s native canine heritage.

UPSC Prelims Practice MCQ

Q.Consider the following statements regarding Tangkhul Hui and Kombai breeds:

1. Tangkhul Hui is traditionally associated with the Tangkhul community of Manipur and is known for strong stamina and disease resistance.
2. Kombai is an indigenous dog breed from Tamil Nadu known for its guarding abilities and muscular build.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 onlyB. 2 onlyC. Both 1 and 2D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Discuss the importance of promoting indigenous animal breeds in strengthening India’s internal security and strategic autonomy. Illustrate with suitable examples. (250 words)

2.Dal Lake

Why in News?

• The Government of Jammu & Kashmir has shelved the ₹416.72-crore Dal Lake restoration plan and has proposed an in-situ conservation strategy.
• Under this approach, residents living within the lake ecosystem will be allowed to remain, and restoration efforts will focus on ecological management rather than relocation.
• This represents a shift toward a more community-oriented and sustainable wetland conservation model.

About Dal Lake

• Dal Lake is a prominent urban freshwater lake and wetland ecosystem located in Srinagar.
• It is widely regarded as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir” because of its scenic beauty, ecological value, and cultural importance.
• The lake plays a vital role in supporting tourism, fisheries, floating agriculture, and local livelihoods. It also forms an integral part of Kashmir’s social and economic life.

Location and Surroundings: Dal Lake is situated in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is surrounded by historic Mughal gardens such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, which add to its aesthetic and tourism value.

Origin and Formation

• Dal Lake forms part of the lacustrine (lake-formed) system of the Kashmir Valley.
• It was created due to tectonic movements and glacial processes that shaped the Himalayan basin. The lake is part of a broader natural wetland complex in the valley.

Hydrological Characteristics

• Dal Lake is hydrologically connected to the Jhelum River system.
• It receives water from inflowing streams and drainage channels originating in the surrounding catchment areas.
• The lake ultimately drains into the Jhelum River through controlled outflows.

Physical and Ecological Features

• The lake covers approximately 18 square kilometres and forms part of a larger 21 square kilometre wetland system.
• It is divided into four main basins—Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal, and Nagin.
• Dal Lake is well known for its floating gardens, locally called Raad, where vegetables are cultivated on floating vegetation mats.
• It is also famous for traditional houseboats and shikaras, which contribute significantly to tourism and employment. During severe winters, portions of the lake freeze due to low temperatures.

Environmental Concerns

Dal Lake faces significant ecological challenges-

• These include untreated sewage discharge from surrounding urban settlements, encroachment along the lake margins, eutrophication caused by nutrient enrichment, excessive weed growth, and reduced water circulation.
• These factors have led to deterioration in water quality and shrinking of the lake area.

Significance of the Policy Shift

• The proposed in-situ conservation approach seeks to balance environmental restoration with social justice.
• By allowing residents to remain within the ecosystem, the policy recognises the interdependence between communities and the lake.
• It aims to promote sustainable livelihood practices while improving ecological health.

Way Forward

• A comprehensive strategy is required to restore Dal Lake sustainably. This should include strengthening sewage treatment infrastructure in Srinagar, preventing further encroachment through strict wetland zoning, and improving natural water circulation.
• Catchment area management, afforestation, and community-based conservation initiatives must also be prioritised.
• Long-term ecological monitoring combined with participatory governance can ensure that Dal Lake remains both an environmental asset and a symbol of Kashmir’s heritage.

UPSC Prelims Practice MCQ

Q.Consider the following statements regarding Dal Lake:

1. It is hydrologically connected to the Jhelum River system.
2. It is divided into four basins including Gagribal and Nagin.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 onlyB. 2 onlyC. Both 1 and 2D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q.Urban freshwater lakes are increasingly facing ecological degradation due to unplanned urbanisation and pollution.(250 WORDS)

3. Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati

Why in News?

The Prime Minister of India paid tribute to Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati on his 202nd birth anniversary, highlighting his contributions to social reform, education, and cultural awakening in India.

Who was he?

• Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati (1824–1883), born as Mool Shankar, was a Hindu ascetic, Vedic scholar, and social reformer.
• He founded the Arya Samaj in 1875 with the objective of reforming Hindu society and reviving the original Vedic spirit.
• He was one of the most influential leaders of the 19th-century socio-religious reform movements in India.

Early Life

• Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati was born on 12 February 1824 at Tankara in the Kathiawar region (present-day Gujarat) in a Brahmin family.
• During childhood, a temple incident in which he questioned idol worship deeply influenced his thinking. The deaths of close family members further strengthened his quest for spiritual truth.
• To avoid an arranged marriage, he left home and spent several years as a wandering ascetic. Later, he became a disciple of Swami Virajananda, who inspired him to dedicate his life to reviving Vedic knowledge.

His Philosophies

• Back to the Vedas: He believed that the Vedas were the most authentic and supreme source of knowledge and dharma. He called for a return to the original teachings of the Vedas.
• Rational Reform: He strongly opposed blind ritualism, superstition, idol worship, and practices that he considered irrational or corruptions of true religion.
• Social Equality: He challenged the caste system based on birth and supported the idea that social status should be determined by merit and character.
• Women’s Upliftment: He supported women’s education and opposed practices such as child marriage. He emphasized dignity and equal rights for women in society.
• Ethical and Disciplined Life: He promoted truth, self-control (brahmacharya), yoga, and moral conduct as essential aspects of a righteous life.

Contribution to the Socio-Religious Movement

The establishment of Arya Samaj in 1875 marked a turning point in reform movements in India. The movement promoted:

• Vedic education
• Social reform
• Opposition to caste discrimination
• Promotion of widow remarriage
• Spread of modern education
• He encouraged public debates and scriptural study, making religious knowledge accessible beyond priestly control.
• His ideas later influenced nationalist thought by promoting self-respect, indigenous awakening, and cultural reform.

Literary Works

Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati authored more than 60 works. His most influential work is:

• Satyarth Prakash

Other important writings include:

• Sanskarvidhi
• Rigvedadi Bhashya Bhumika
• Commentaries on the Rigveda and Yajurveda

He also promoted the publication and spread of Vedic literature through institutions such as the Paropakarini Sabha at Ajmer.

Last Days

In 1883, while staying in Jodhpur under royal patronage, he fell seriously ill after reportedly being poisoned. Despite medical efforts, he passed away on 30 October 1883 in Ajmer.

His final days reflected his unwavering commitment to reform despite strong opposition.

Significance in Modern India

• Pioneer of Hindu social reform in the 19th century.
• Promoter of education and women’s empowerment.
• Critic of social evils and caste discrimination.
• Influential figure in shaping nationalist and reformist thought.

His slogan “Back to the Vedas” became a powerful call for cultural and spiritual renewal.

Way Forward / Relevance Today

• His emphasis on rationality and reform remains relevant in combating social evils.
• His support for women’s education aligns with modern gender equality goals.
• His stress on indigenous knowledge resonates with contemporary cultural revival efforts.

Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati continues to be remembered as a reformer who sought to harmonise tradition with reason and social justice.

UPSC Prelims Practice MCQ

Q.Consider the following statements regarding Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati:

1. He founded the Arya Samaj in 1875.
2. He supported the caste system based strictly on birth.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 onlyB. 2 onlyC. Both 1 and 2D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Discuss the role of Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati in the 19th-century socio-religious reform movement in India. Examine the contemporary relevance of his ideas. (250 words)

4. Dornier 228

Why in News?

• The Ministry of Defence has signed a ₹2,312 crore contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to procure eight Dornier 228 aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard.
• The procurement is aimed at strengthening coastal surveillance and maritime security capabilities.

About Dornier 228 Aircraft

• The Dornier 228 is a twin-engine, turboprop Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) utility aircraft.
• It is designed for passenger transport, cargo movement, and special mission operations.
• It is widely used for maritime patrol, border surveillance, search and rescue, and logistics support.

Development and Manufacturing

• The aircraft was originally developed by Dornier GmbH of Germany in the early 1980s.
• It is currently manufactured in India under licence by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited at its Kanpur facility.
• The indigenous production aligns with India’s defence manufacturing goals under the Buy (Indian) category.

Variants

The Dornier 228 has evolved into multiple versions:

• Dornier 228-100 and 228-200, which are early 15- and 19-seater variants.
• Dornier 228 NG (Next Generation), which features a glass cockpit and upgraded five-blade propellers.
• Hindustan-Dornier 228, including civilian and military versions manufactured by HAL.
• Maritime Patrol Variant equipped with radar and mission systems.
• Business and Air Ambulance variants modified for VIP and medical evacuation roles.

Key Features

• The aircraft is designed to carry up to 19 passengers or equivalent cargo loads, making it suitable for light commuter and transport roles.
• It is powered by two Garrett TPE331 turboprop engines, known for reliability, fuel efficiency, and performance in diverse climatic conditions.
• Its STOL capability allows it to operate from short and unpaved runways, making it ideal for remote, island, and coastal regions.
• The aircraft has an endurance of approximately five to six hours, enabling extended maritime patrol missions.
• Its rectangular fuselage and large side-loading doors facilitate easy loading of cargo, stretchers, or mission equipment.
• The Next Generation variant is equipped with advanced avionics, including a glass cockpit, digital displays, and autopilot systems, enhancing operational safety and situational awareness.
• The maritime version is fitted with 360-degree surveillance radar, infrared sensors, and real-time data link systems to detect vessels and transmit live information to ground stations.

Significance for India

• The induction of additional Dornier 228 aircraft will enhance the Indian Coast Guard’s ability to conduct coastal surveillance, Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) monitoring, anti-smuggling operations, and search and rescue missions.
• The procurement under the Buy (Indian) category promotes indigenous defence manufacturing and strengthens India’s self-reliance in aerospace production.
• It also supports employment generation and reinforces HAL’s domestic supply chain ecosystem.

Way Forward

• To maximise operational effectiveness, India should continue investing in indigenous upgrades, advanced mission systems, and network-centric integration of maritime assets.
• Strengthening domestic aerospace research and encouraging private sector participation can further enhance India’s strategic autonomy in defence aviation.
• The Dornier 228 represents a critical link between indigenous manufacturing capability and maritime security preparedness.

UPSC Prelims Practice MCQ

Q.Consider the following statements regarding the Dornier 228 aircraft:

1. It is a twin-engine turboprop aircraft with Short Take-Off and Landing capability.
2. It is currently manufactured in India by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 onlyB. 2 onlyC. Both 1 and 2D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Discuss the role of indigenous defence manufacturing in strengthening India’s maritime security. Illustrate your answer with reference to the Dornier 228 aircraft. (250 words)

5.India Set to Get Two New Telescopes in Ladakh

Why in News?

• The Union Budget 2026 has approved the establishment of two major ground-based telescopes in Ladakh along with the upgradation of the existing Himalayan Chandra Telescope.
• This initiative aims to significantly strengthen India’s global standing in observational astronomy and frontier space research.

Background

India will set up two advanced astronomical observatories in Ladakh to study the Sun and the deep universe. These projects will enhance national capabilities in:

• Heliophysics
• Exoplanet research
• Stellar evolution
• Cosmology

Ladakh offers ideal observational conditions due to its high altitude, dry climate, low atmospheric water vapour, and dark skies.

1. National Large Solar Telescope (NLST)Nature of the ProjectThe National Large Solar Telescope (NLST) will be a 2-metre aperture ground-based solar telescope located in the Merak region near Pangong Tso in Ladakh. It will observe the Sun in visible and near-infrared wavelengths.Key FeaturesThe telescope will be designed specifically for high-resolution solar observations.Its 2-metre aperture will enable detailed study of solar surface activity and magnetic structures.Observations in visible and near-infrared wavelengths will help scientists examine solar magnetism and dynamic processes.The high-altitude site will reduce atmospheric distortion and enhance image clarity.It will become India’s third ground-based solar observatory after facilities at Kodaikanal and Udaipur.The telescope will complement data from Aditya-L1, thereby improving space weather monitoring.SignificanceThe NLST will strengthen India’s capabilities in heliophysics and solar research. It will help monitor solar flares and coronal mass ejections that can disrupt satellites, communication systems, and power grids.It will also improve India’s ability to forecast space weather events.

2. National Large Optical–Near Infrared Telescope (NLOT)Nature of the ProjectThe National Large Optical–Near Infrared Telescope (NLOT) will be a 13.7-metre segmented mirror telescope constructed in Hanle, Ladakh. It will become one of the largest optical-infrared telescopes in the world.Key FeaturesThe telescope will feature a 13.7-metre primary mirror made up of 90 hexagonal mirror segments functioning as a single large mirror.Its optical and near-infrared observation capabilities will allow deep-space exploration and detection of faint celestial objects.The dry and high-altitude environment of Hanle will ensure minimal atmospheric interference and superior data quality.The project builds upon India’s experience in international collaborations such as the Thirty Meter Telescope initiative.The telescope will support frontier research on exoplanets, supernovae, galaxy formation, and the origins of the universe.

Significance for India

• The establishment of these telescopes will place India among leading nations in large-aperture ground-based astronomy.
• Indian scientists will gain greater access to observation time, reducing dependence on foreign facilities.
• The projects will strengthen India’s scientific leadership within the Global South and enhance indigenous technological capabilities in optics, instrumentation, and precision engineering.

Way Forward

• To maximise the benefits of these investments, India should promote collaboration between academic institutions, ISRO, and global research organisations. Capacity building in astrophysics and optical engineering must be prioritised.
• Long-term funding stability and integration with space-based missions will ensure sustained scientific output.
• These telescopes represent not only scientific infrastructure but also strategic investments in India’s knowledge economy and technological leadership.

UPSC Prelims Practice MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements:

1. The National Large Solar Telescope will observe the Sun in visible and near-infrared wavelengths.
2. The National Large Optical–Near Infrared Telescope will be constructed in Hanle, Ladakh.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 onlyB. 2 onlyC. Both 1 and 2D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

UPSC Mains Practice Question

Q.Discuss the strategic and scientific significance of establishing large ground-based telescopes in India. Examine their role in strengthening India’s position in global astronomy. (250 words)