31 Dec 2025 | Daily Current Affairs

Dhruv NG Helicopter – HAL Entry into Civil Aviation | UPSC

Context

  • Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has formally entered the civil helicopter market with the successful maiden flight of the Dhruv New Generation (NG) helicopter.

Key facts for UPSC Prelims 2026

  • Aircraft: Dhruv NG
  • Type: 5.5-tonne, light twin-engine, multi-role helicopter
  • Indigenous: Designed and manufactured in India
  • Terrain capability: Engineered to operate across diverse and challenging Indian terrains
  • Certification: Progressing towards full civil certification by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
  • Significance: Marks HAL’s entry into civil aviation, boosts Atmanirbhar Bharat in aerospace
  • Use potential: Passenger transport, utility, emergency and regional connectivity roles
Dhruv NG helicopter
Dhruv NG helicopter

Himachal Apple Import Duty Issue – UPSC GS3 Agriculture

Context

  • Apple growers in Himachal Pradesh have opposed the Centre’s proposal to reduce import duty on New Zealand apples from 50% to 25% under a trade agreement (FTA).
  • They fear cheaper imports will depress domestic prices and harm small and marginal farmers.
  • Himachal produces around 6.5 lakh tonnes of apples annually, contributing nearly 25% of India’s total apple production.

Top 5 Exporters of Fresh Apples

  • Italy (14.5%)
  • United States (14.1%)
  • China (13.6%)
  • New Zealand (7.8%)
  • Chile (7.6%)

Top 5 Importers of Fresh Apples

  • Germany
  • United Kingdom
  • India
Himachal apple import duty
Himachal apple import duty
Himachal apple import duty
Himachal apple import duty

India Fourth Largest Economy – Key Facts for UPSC GS3

Context

  • India has overtaken Japan to become the 4th largest economy.
  • Current nominal GDP is $4.18 trillion, with prospects of overtaking Germany in the coming years.

Nominal GDP ranking (US dollars)

  • United States
  • China
  • Germany
  • India ($4.18 trillion)
  • Japan

GDP ranking (Purchasing Power Parity)

  • China
  • United States
  • India
  • Russia
  • Japan
India fourth largest economy
India fourth largest economy
India fourth largest economy
India fourth largest economy
About the UPSC Civil Services Examination (UPSC CSE)

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