1. Sherds with geometric symbols unearthed during excavations at Perumbalai in T.N.

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 2)

Topic: GS1 – Indian History – Ancient History

Context

Tamil Nadu’s Department of Archaeology has uncovered ancient graffiti-marked potsherds at Perumbalai, Dharmapuri district, dating back to the 6th Century BCE. The findings, including over 1,000 inscribed potsherds and various antiquities, provide significant insights into the Iron Age and early historic periods in the region.

Analysis of the news:

• Tamil Nadu’s Department of Archaeology discovered graffiti marks resembling geometric symbols on potsherds during excavations at Perumbalai, Dharmapuri district.
• The report, ‘Excavations at Perumbalai 2022’ by S. Paranthaman and R. Venkata Guru Prasanna, indicates the site’s lower-most level dates back to the 6th Century BCE.
• The site is similar to other historic sites like Vallam, Kodumanal, Keeladi, Uraiyur, and Karur, which also found Tamil-Brahmi-inscribed potsherds and graffiti-bearing potsherds.
• Pottery from various strata shows proper chronological sequences, with the lower-most level dominated by fine black-and-red ware (BRW) and black ware, indicating Iron Age origins.
• A total of 1,028 inscribed potsherds were recovered, with geometric and swastik-like symbols being common. Only 297 of these carry recognizable signs.
• Burnished ware, black and red ware, russet-coated black and red ware, russet-coated red ware, red ware, and black ware were unearthed, with russet-coated ware likely serving as elite tableware.
• The excavation yielded 351 antiquities, including over 200 terracotta objects such as human and bird figurines, beads, wheels, sling balls, spindle whorls, lamps, and hopscotches.
• Significant finds include an unidentified copper coin and a copper bell with an upper projection.
• Perumbalai is located on the bank of the Nagavathi river (ancient Palar), a tributary of the Cauvery river, and is historically significant as the northern boundary of the Kongu region according to the 13th-century literary work Kongumandala Satakam.

Significance of these excavations:

Historical Insight: The findings at Perumbalai provide valuable information about the Iron Age and early historic period in Tamil Nadu, dating back to the 6th Century BCE. Cultural Continuity: The presence of Tamil (Tamil-Brahmi) inscriptions and graffiti marks similar to those found at other historic sites like Keeladi and Uraiyur indicates cultural and linguistic continuity in the region. Pottery Analysis: The diverse pottery assemblage, including fine BRW and black ware, helps establish a chronological framework and reveals advanced pottery techniques of the period. Elite Ware: Russet-coated ware identified as elite table ware suggests social stratification and the existence of a class that used finer pottery. Antiquities: The variety of terracotta objects and metal artefacts, including human and bird figurines, beads, and a copper coin, provides insights into daily life, trade, and artistic practices.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the recent archaeological findings at Perumbalai in Dharmapuri district for understanding the Iron Age and early historic period in Tamil Nadu. (150 Words /10 marks)

2. Fear of IEDs returns to Telangana’s border villages

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 3)

Topic: GS3 – Internal Security

Context

The resurgence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by Maoists on the Telangana-Chhattisgarh border is posing new challenges for police. Recent IED incidents have resulted in civilian casualties, highlighting the ongoing conflict and the unintended victims of the Maoists’ tactics against security forces.

Analysis of the news:

• The resurgence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by left-wing extremists, particularly the Maoists, poses a new challenge for police on the Telangana-Chhattisgarh boundary.

Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs):

Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are homemade bombs crafted from non-military materials. Typically used by insurgents, terrorists, and non-state actors.Designed to cause damage, casualties, and fear.Can be detonated remotely or through physical triggers. Often hidden or disguised in everyday objects.Used in asymmetrical warfare due to their low cost and accessibility.Pose significant threats to both military and civilian targets.

• In the past three months, five IED explosions have occurred, killing two civilians and injuring three others in the bordering districts of the two states.
• Civilians, particularly those in forest and village areas, have inadvertently become victims of these IEDs.
• Persistent combing operations by commando forces and local police had previously reduced Maoist movements in recent years.
• Maoists have faced significant losses recently, with many members and leaders killed in exchanges of fire in Chhattisgarh.
• The use of IEDs dates back to the late 1980s when Maoists, initially known as the People’s War Group of Naxalites, first adopted this tactic.
• The first evidence of IED usage by Maoists was discovered in the mid-1980s in Nachinapalli village, Warangal district.
• Although the use of IEDs declined with the reduction in Maoist activities, recent months have seen a resurgence.
• IEDs are used to confuse and delay security forces, stalling their movements and allowing Maoists to regroup or change strategies.

PYQ: Naxalism is a social, economic and developmental issue manifesting as a violent internal security threat. In this context, discuss the emerging issues and suggest a multilayered strategy to tackle the menace of Naxalism.(250 Words /15 marks) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-3 2022)

Practice Question:  Discuss the resurgence of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) by Maoists on the Telangana-Chhattisgarh border. What are the implications for security forces and civilians, and what strategies can be implemented to mitigate this threat? (150 Words /10 marks)

3. What are the duties of a Speaker?

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

Topic: GS2 – Indian Polity – Indian Constitution – Significant Provisions

Context

Bhartruhari Mahtab has been appointed as Speaker pro tem for the 18th Lok Sabha, overseeing initial proceedings until a full-time Speaker is elected on June 26. The appointment reflects constitutional norms ensuring continuity in parliamentary leadership and marks a pivotal moment in India’s parliamentary procedures ahead of the new session.

Analysis of the news:

• Speaker Pro tem Appointment: Bhartruhari Mahtab appointed as Speaker pro tem for the 18th Lok Sabha, facilitating oath administration to MPs and overseeing the election of the full-time Speaker.
• Constitutional Basis: Article 94 ensures the Speaker remains in office until the new Lok Sabha convenes, with Article 95(1) enabling the President to appoint a temporary Speaker in case of vacancy.
• Role and Function: Speaker pro tem’s role is temporary and ceremonial, administering oaths and presiding over initial proceedings until a full-time Speaker is elected.
• Election of Speaker: Governed by Article 93, the Speaker is elected unopposed traditionally, with the President fixing the election date.
• Deputy Speaker: Article 93 also mandates the election of a Deputy Speaker, historically offered to the Opposition since 1991, except in the 17th Lok Sabha.
• Speaker’s Constitutional Roles: Certifies Money Bills and adjudicates on defection under the Tenth Schedule, with past instances of perceived bias towards ruling dispensations.
• Lok Sabha Rules: Grants Speaker powers to refer Bills to Standing Committees and suspend members for disorder, though referrals have declined.
• British Speaker’s Impartiality: Contrasts with UK practice where Speakers resign from party affiliation, reflecting neutrality in House proceedings.
• Historical Precedents: Somnath Chatterjee’s tenure exemplified independence by not resigning despite party directives, setting a precedent.

PYQ: Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? (150 words/10m) (UPSC CSE (M) GS-2 2020)

Practice Question:  Explain the pivotal role of the Speaker of Lok Sabha in India’s parliamentary democracy, highlighting their constitutional duties, powers, and responsibilities in ensuring orderly conduct, legislative scrutiny, and upholding the principles of democracy and fairness in parliamentary proceedings (250 Words /15 marks)

4. First Session of the 18th Lok Sabha: MPs to Take Oath, Commence Legislative Duties

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 10)

Topic: GS2 – Polity – Parliament – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these

Context:

The first session of the 18th Lok Sabha will begin today. Before the legislative functioning of the House can start, the newly elected Members of Parliament (MPs) must take the oath of office, as mandated by the Constitution.

Analysis of News:

Inaugural Oath Ceremony:

• The day will begin at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where Bhartruhari Mahtab, elected for the seventh consecutive time from Cuttack, Odisha, will be the first to take the oath as a Lok Sabha MP in front of President Droupadi Murmu.
• The President has entrusted Mahtab with the duties of the Speaker (pro tem) under Article 95(1) of the Constitution until the election of the new Speaker. Mahtab will preside over the House as his colleagues take their oaths.

Commencement of an MP’s Term:

• The five-year term of a Lok Sabha MP begins when the Election Commission of India (ECI) declares the results according to Section 73 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
• From that day onward, MPs are eligible for certain rights as elected representatives, such as receiving their salary and allowances from the date of ECI notification.
• However, their term’s start also means that if MPs change their party allegiance, their political party can ask the Speaker to disqualify them under the anti-defection law.

Significance of the Parliamentary Oath:

• Winning the election and starting the term does not automatically allow an MP to participate in House proceedings.
• To debate and vote in the Lok Sabha, an MP must make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation prescribed in the Constitution (Article 99).
• There is a financial penalty of Rs 500 for participating or voting in House proceedings without taking an oath (Article 104).
• However, an individual can become a minister without being elected to Parliament and has six months to secure a seat in either the Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha. During this time, they can participate but not vote in House proceedings.

Evolution of the Oath:

• Initially, the draft Constitution did not invoke God in any oaths. During the Constituent Assembly discussions, members like K.T. Shah and Mahavir Tyagi proposed amendments to include God in the oath.
• B.R. Ambedkar accepted the amendments, recognizing that for some people, invoking God provided a necessary moral sanction.
• The last change in the oath came with the Constitution (Sixteenth Amendment) Act, 1963, which added that oath-takers would uphold India’s sovereignty and integrity.

Procedure for Taking the Oath:

• MPs must submit their election certificate to the Lok Sabha staff before taking the oath or affirmation.
• This safeguard was added after a 1957 incident when a mentally unsound individual posed as an MP and took the oath. MPs can subscribe to the oath or affirmation in English or any of the 22 languages specified in the Constitution.
• In recent Lok Sabhas, Hindi, English, and Sanskrit have been popular languages for taking the oath. MPs must use the name mentioned in their election certificate and adhere to the oath’s text.

Special Cases and Oath-Taking:

• MPs in jail can take the oath, as the Constitution specifies that if an MP does not attend Parliament for 60 days, their seat can be declared vacant. Courts have allowed MPs in jail to take the oath in Parliament to prevent this.
• For instance, in June 2019, Atul Kumar Singh, an MP from Ghosi, Uttar Pradesh, who was in jail for serious criminal charges, was allowed by the court to take his oath in Parliament in January 2020.

Practice Question:  The commencement of the 18th Lok Sabha brings to light the procedural and constitutional significance of the parliamentary oath. Discuss the constitutional provisions related to the commencement of an MP’s term and the taking of the parliamentary oath. Explain the importance of these procedures and their impact on the legislative functioning of the House. (250 words/15 m)

5. New Russia-North Korea Security Pact: Strategic Shift and Global Implications

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 10)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations

Context:

After World War II, the Soviet Union aimed to establish a communist regime in Korea, providing military support to North Korea’s founder, Kim Il Sung, during the Korean War. Following the conflict, both the USSR and China supplied military and other forms of aid to North Korea. In 1961, the Russo-North Korea Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation, and Mutual Assistance was signed, incorporating a mutual defense agreement. However, the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 rendered this treaty void, leading to a temporary deterioration in relations.

Analysis of News:

Resurgence of Relations in the 2000s:

• Since the early 2000s, Russia under Vladimir Putin and the Kim family-ruled North Korea have gradually improved their ties.
• Despite this, Putin did not initially support North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and backed international sanctions aimed at curbing Pyongyang’s nuclear capabilities.
• The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 significantly altered the geopolitical landscape, with Russia seeking support from North Korea and China amidst increasing isolation from Western powers.

Key Provisions of the Pact:

Mutual Military Support

• The security agreement between Russia and North Korea encompasses cooperation in various areas, with a critical focus on mutual military support.
• The agreement’s most notable aspect is the mutual defense provision, which stipulates that if either country is subjected to armed aggression, the other will provide immediate military assistance.
• This provision, reminiscent of the 1961 agreement, underscores a renewed commitment to mutual defense in today’s complex geopolitical environment.

Strategic Implications

Threat to Regional Stability

• The security agreement poses a direct threat to South Korea and Japan, both of which have longstanding concerns about North Korea’s nuclear program and military strength.
• The Russian security umbrella over North Korea exacerbates these concerns, likely prompting both countries to bolster their defenses and reassess their security policies.
• Japan, moving away from its pacifist foreign policy, is already in the process of rebuilding its military capabilities.

US and NATO Reactions

• The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to its allies in the region. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg has also expressed deep concern about the pact, highlighting the risks to global security and the potential for increased nuclear proliferation.
• The alliance between authoritarian powers, as evidenced by the Russia-North Korea pact, signals a troubling trend for the international community.

Potential Ripple Effects

• The agreement could inspire similar partnerships elsewhere, particularly in the Middle East, where Iran and Russia might strengthen their ties against the US and its allies.
• This development could lead to a more polarized and volatile global security environment.

China’s Position:

• China, a traditional ally of North Korea, faces a dilemma regarding the new Russia-North Korea security pact.
• While the treaty strengthens the anti-Western coalition in Asia, China might be wary of Russia’s growing military influence over North Korea, potentially undermining Beijing’s geopolitical leverage over Pyongyang.
• Moreover, this development is likely to attract even closer Western scrutiny and attention in Asia, complicating China’s strategic calculations.

Conclusion:

• The recent security agreement between Russia and North Korea marks a significant shift in regional and global geopolitics.
• While the full implications of the pact remain uncertain, its potential to enhance North Korea’s military capabilities and alter the balance of power in East Asia is evident.
• The agreement underscores the importance of vigilance and strategic planning for South Korea, Japan, and their allies in the face of evolving threats and alliances.

Practice Question:  Examine the strategic implications of the recent security pact between Russia and North Korea. How might this agreement impact regional stability in East Asia and influence global geopolitical dynamics? (250 words/15 m)

6. Estonia and India Forge Cybersecurity Partnership Amid Rising Cyber Threats

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Economy; Page: 11)

Topic: GS2 – International Relations – Bilateral Relations

Context:

Estonia, recognized globally as one of the most advanced digital nations, is looking to enhance its cybersecurity collaboration with India. This initiative aims to strengthen the cybersecurity infrastructure of both countries amid increasing cyber threats.

Analysis of News:

Common Threats:

• Estonia and India share common cybersecurity challenges. Estonia, due to its proximity to Russia and its stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, faces a significant number of cyberattacks from Russian actors.
• Similarly, India encounters cybersecurity threats from its neighbor, China. Both nations experience attacks on critical infrastructure, highlighting the need for robust cybersecurity measures.

Historical Context and Experience:

• Estonia’s experience with cyberattacks dates back to 2007, when it suffered a massive distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack following the removal of a Soviet war memorial in Tallinn.
• This incident marked one of the largest cyberattacks on Estonia’s digital infrastructure. The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has further intensified these threats.
• India’s experience with cyber threats, particularly from China, involves sophisticated attacks aimed at accessing and holding sensitive information as ransomware.

NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence:

• The NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE), established in 2008, plays a pivotal role in addressing cyber defense issues.
• It brings together experts from the military, government, academia, and industry across 39 countries.
• Experts emphasized the importance of including like-minded democratic nations such as India in their efforts to exchange knowledge and develop strategies to counter cyber-attacks.

Growing Bilateral Ties:

• The relationship between Estonia and India in the field of cybersecurity is strengthening.
• Recently, an Indian contingent participated as observers in a NATO-run cybersecurity exercise in Estonia, which was the largest of its kind in Europe.
• `This involvement signifies the growing bilateral ties and the potential for further cooperation.

Economic and Strategic Considerations:

• Despite the growing cybersecurity collaboration, Estonia’s security establishment remains wary of India’s substantial oil imports from Russia.
• This economic relationship with Russia is seen in a complex light given the geopolitical tensions involving Ukraine.
• Nonetheless, Estonia’s defense minister, Hanno Pevkur, highlighted the importance of continuing to work together on cybersecurity issues, involving both government and private sectors from both countries.

Digital Identity Systems:

• Estonia and India also share a notable similarity in their digital identity systems.
• Estonia’s eID and India’s Aadhaar are integral to their respective government services.
• During the development of Aadhaar, Indian officials closely studied Estonia’s system, indicating a long-standing exchange of knowledge and expertise in digital governance.

Conclusion:

• The partnership between Estonia and India in cybersecurity is poised to grow, leveraging their shared experiences and strengths.
• This collaboration will not only enhance their cyber defenses but also foster broader economic and strategic ties.
• As they navigate the complexities of geopolitical tensions and cyber threats, the cooperation between these two nations stands as a testament to the importance of international collaboration in ensuring digital security.

Practice Question:  Discuss the significance of the cybersecurity partnership between Estonia and India in the context of rising global cyber threats. Highlight the common challenges both countries face, their historical experiences, and the potential areas for collaboration. (250 words/15 m)

PRELIMS FACTS

1. Significant Progress in India-Korea CEPA Review Talks Amid Trade Imbalance Concerns

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Economy; Page: 11)

Context:

The discussions between India and Korea regarding the review of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) have progressed significantly, with both countries exchanging lists of requests for further trade liberalization. Korea has expressed a desire to open up sectors such as automobiles, textiles, chemicals, and petrochemicals, while India is aiming for greater access to Korean markets for steel, rice, shrimp, and clothing.

Analysis of News:

Challenges in CEPA Review:

Divergent Standpoints

• The pace of the CEPA revision has been slow due to differing perspectives. Korea seeks to expand the agreement, while India focuses on addressing its growing trade deficit with Korea.
• The agreement, signed in 2009 and operational since 2010, was slated for review in 2016, but substantial progress has been elusive, with only ten rounds of talks concluded to date.
• Although some Korean officials have optimistically suggested a 2024 conclusion, specific dates for the next round of talks remain undecided.

Trade Deficit Concerns

• India’s primary concern is the burgeoning trade deficit with Korea, prompting its cautious approach to expanding the CEPA.
• In contrast, Korea aims to increase the openness of the Indian market, aspiring for parity with the India-Japan FTA. This disparity in objectives has contributed to the slow progress in negotiations.

Scope of the CEPA

• The CEPA encompasses trade in goods, investments, services, and bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
• Under the current agreement, Korea committed to phasing out or reducing tariffs on 90% of Indian exports, while India agreed to similar concessions on 85% of Korean exports.
• The ongoing review aims to address existing imbalances and enhance the effectiveness of the bilateral trade agreement.

2. Extreme Heat Claims Hundreds of Lives During Hajj Pilgrimage in Mecca

(Source: Indian Express; Section: Explained; Page: 10)

Context:

This year, hundreds of Hajj pilgrims have succumbed to extreme desert heat in Saudi Arabia, with temperatures in Mecca reaching above 51 degrees Celsius. Such intense heat has exacerbated the already challenging conditions of the pilgrimage, particularly impacting elderly pilgrims, who form a significant portion of the attendees. While heat-related deaths during Hajj are not new, climate change is making the pilgrimage increasingly hazardous.

Analysis of News:

Historical and Religious Significance:

The Essence of Hajj

• Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, requires every Muslim to undertake the pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime if they are able.
• The origins of Hajj are deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, dating back to the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), approximately 4,000 years ago.
• The pilgrimage involves a series of rituals over five to six days, including circumambulations of the Kaaba, traverses between the hills of Safa and Marwa, prayers at Mount Arafat, and the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina.

Timing and Climate Impact

• The Hajj takes place between the 8th and 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar.
• Due to the Islamic lunar calendar being shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the Hajj dates shift earlier each year.
• This year, Hajj occurred from June 14 to 19, during peak summer. The pilgrimage will eventually move to cooler months but will return to peak summer by the 2040s, when global temperatures are projected to be even higher due to climate change.

Indian Pilgrim Deaths

• India reported 98 deaths among its pilgrims this year, a significant decrease from 187 last year.
• The Ministry of External Affairs attributed these deaths to natural causes, chronic illnesses, and the extreme heat.
• On the day of Arafat, one of the hottest days, six Indian pilgrims died. The Indian Hajj mission in Jeddah provides extensive medical support and logistical arrangements for Indian pilgrims, including a dedicated hospital and ambulances.

Prelims Facts

3. After years, Russia approves draft logistics agreement to be signed with India

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 4)

Context

India and Russia have finalised a long-awaited mutual logistics agreement, akin to those India has with other nations like the U.S. The agreement aims to streamline military exchanges, training, and humanitarian efforts, bolstering their strategic defence partnership.

Analysis of the news:

• India and Russia have finalised a mutual logistics agreement after years of delay, akin to those India has with other countries.
• The agreement facilitates military exchanges, exercises, training, port calls, and disaster relief efforts.
• Russia’s approval via a governmental decree paves the way for negotiations and signing by both nations.
• This agreement, part of strategic defence cooperation, will initially be valid for five years and automatically renew unless terminated.
• It complements existing military technical cooperation and aims to enhance interoperability and operational efficiency, especially for the Indian Navy.

4. Pushpak, ISRO’s reusable launch vehicle, clears test

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Context

ISRO successfully completed its third reusable launch vehicle landing experiment (RLV LEX-03) in Chitradurga, Karnataka, demonstrating advanced autonomous landing capabilities. This mission, following earlier successes, is crucial for developing future orbital re-entry technologies, reaffirming ISRO’s expertise in reusable space vehicle systems.

Analysis of the news:

• ISRO successfully completed its third reusable launch vehicle landing experiment (RLV LEX-03) at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka.
• The experiment re-demonstrated autonomous landing under more challenging conditions.
• The winged vehicle, Pushpak, was released from an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter at an altitude of 4.5 km.
• Pushpak executed cross-range correction manoeuvres and performed a precise horizontal landing at the runway centerline.
• The mission simulated high-speed landing conditions for a vehicle returning from space.
• Advanced guidance algorithms for error corrections essential for future orbital re-entry missions were validated.
• The LEX-03 mission reused winged body and flight systems from the LEX-02 mission without modification.

5. Why Kavach is stuck on a slow track

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 13)

Context

The recent railway accident in West Bengal involving the Kanchanjungha Express has highlighted concerns over delays in implementing the indigenously developed anti-collision device, Kavach, across India’s extensive railway network. With only 2% of the 68,000 Rkm network covered in four years, attributed to vendor capacity issues and customization challenges, efforts are underway to accelerate deployment.

What is Kavach?

• Kavach is an indigenous anti-collision train protection device developed by Indian Railways to enhance safety measures across its network.

Here are the key features and components of Kavach:

• Purpose: Designed to prevent collisions by alerting and stopping trains automatically in case of potential accidents.
• Components:
  • Stationary control unit and radio units installed at stations and block sections.
  • Onboard equipment includes a brake interface, speed sensor, RFID reader, radio unit, and display unit.
  • Passive RFID tags are placed strategically along the tracks.
• Operation: When a train exceeds safe speed limits, the system triggers alerts to the locomotive pilot. If necessary, it initiates automatic braking to bring the train to a halt.
• Deployment Status: Currently covers only 2% (1,465 Rkm) of the 68,000 Rkm railway network.
• Challenges: Delays in deployment attributed to vendor capacity constraints, customization requirements for different trains, and regulatory clearances for new vendors.
• Future Plans: Scheduled for expansion on critical routes like Delhi-Howrah, aiming to cover additional 6,000 Rkm including Delhi-Mumbai and Delhi-Guwahati routes.

6. Russia blames U.S. for missile attack on Crimea

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 14)

Context

Russia accused the United States of responsibility for a missile strike in Sevastopol, Crimea, claiming it killed five and injured over 100, escalating tensions in the region.

Places in news – Sevastopol:

• Sevastopol, located in Crimea, Ukraine, was annexed by Russia in 2014 but remains internationally recognized as part of Ukraine.
• Recently, it was the site of a deadly missile strike, allegedly carried out by Ukraine, killing five people and injuring over 100, prompting accusations and investigations of terrorism by Russian authorities.