State PCS - Rajasthan (RAS)

• 13 Apr 2026

Exercise Brahmastra in Rajasthan

Why in News? 

The Indian Army recently concluded Exercise Brahmastra at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. This large-scale integrated firepower exercise served as a significant demonstration of the Army’s "Atmanirbharta" (self-reliance) and its transition toward becoming a modern, technology-driven force. 

Key Points 

• Apache Attack Helicopters: The display was headlined by the Boeing AH-64E Apache, showcasing its precision-strike capabilities using Hellfire missiles and 30mm chain guns. 
  • Integrated Firepower: The exercise featured a synchronized display of infantry, mechanized forces, and specialized aviation assets. 
  • Night Combat Capabilities: A significant portion of the exercise focused on operations in low-visibility conditions, testing advanced thermal imaging and night-vision systems. 
• Strategic Significance: It demonstrated seamless coordination between the Indian Army’s Aviation Corps and ground-based artillery units. 
  • Technological Shift: The inclusion of loitering munitions and swarm drones highlighted the Army's shift toward Network-Centric Warfare (NCW). 
• "Make in India" and Defense Modernization: Alongside global platforms like the Apache, several indigenously developed systems, including the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and specialized ammunition, were put to the test. 
  • Force Multiplier: The integration of the Apache acts as a "tank killer" and a significant force multiplier for strike corps operating in the plains and desert sectors.

Vice President Released Sindhi Version of Constitution in Two Scripts

Why in News? 

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan released the updated version of the Constitution of India in the Sindhi language on the occasion of Sindhi Bhasha Diwas. 

Key Points 

• Release: The Vice President released the latest Sindhi translation of the Constitution of India, at an event held at the Vice President’s Enclave in New Delhi. 
• Scripts Used: The Constitution in Sindhi has been published in two scripts—the Devanagari script (first edition) and the Persian script (second edition).  
• Occasion: The release took place on 10th April 2026 on the occasion of Sindhi Bhasha Diwas (Sindhi Language Day), observed to celebrate and promote the Sindhi language and culture. 
• Sindhi Language: 
  • Sindhi is one of the 22 official languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution of India. 
  • The Sindhi language was included through the 21st Constitutional Amendment Act, 1967. 

Read More: Constitution of India, Eighth Schedule 

Indian music legend Asha Bhosle Passes Away at 92

Why in News?

The death of legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle on 12 April, 2026, at the age of 92, marks the definitive end of an era in Indian music. Known affectionately as "Asha Tai," she died in Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital following complications from cardiac and respiratory issues.

Key Points:

• Birth: 8 September, 1933, in Sangli, Maharashtra. 
• Family: Daughter of classical singer Pandit Deenanath Mangeshkar and younger sister of the "Nightingale of India," Lata Mangeshkar. 
• Career Span: Over eight decades (1943–2026), beginning with the Marathi film Majha Bal. 
• Guinness World Record: Formally recognised in 2011 as the most recorded artist in music history, with over 11,000–12,000 songs across 20+ languages. 

Key Awards and Honours: 

Award	Year	Significance
Dadasaheb Phalke Award	2000	India's highest award in cinema
Padma Vibhushan	2008	Second-highest civilian award in India
National Film Awards	Multiple	Including for Umrao Jaan (1981) and Ijaazat (1986)
Grammy Nomination	1997	First Indian singer to be nominated for a Grammy
Maharashtra Bhushan	2021	The highest civilian award of the State of Maharashtra

Final Rites: Her last rites were performed with full state honours at Shivaji Park, Mumbai, the same location where her sister Lata Mangeshkar was laid to rest.

Read More:Padma Vibhushan, Dadasaheb Phalke Award 

Mundra Port: India’s Emerging Hub for Automotive Exports

Why in News? 

Mundra Port in Gujarat, managed by Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ), has officially surpassed traditional hubs like Chennai and Ennore to become India’s largest automobile export gateway. This shift marks a significant milestone in India’s maritime logistics and the "Make in India" initiative. 

Key Points: 

• Key Drivers of Growth: Its proximity to the northern and western automobile clusters (Haryana, Rajasthan, and Gujarat) reduces inland logistics costs. 
  • Infrastructure Excellence: The port features a dedicated Roll-on/Roll-off (Ro-Ro) terminal and a massive parking yard capable of handling over 15,000 vehicles at any given time. 
  • Deep Draft Capabilities: Mundra can accommodate the world’s largest Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTCs), enhancing economies of scale for global manufacturers.  
• Export Surge: Major OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) like Maruti Suzuki, Nissan, and Toyota have increasingly shifted their export volumes to Mundra due to its faster turnaround times. 
  • Global Reach: The port serves as a primary exit point for Indian-made vehicles heading to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.  
• Economic and Policy Impact: Mundra’s integration with the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) has significantly improved the "last-mile" connectivity from manufacturing plants. 

Read More:Dedicated Freight Corridor