UPSC Prelims Facts - 3 April 2025 - Gokulam Seek IAS Academy

Table of Contents

Victims of Terrorism Associations Network (VoTAN)

VoTAN, a global network to support victims and survivors of terrorism, was launched recently

Launched by UNOCT – The UN Office of Counter-Terrorism initiated VoTAN to support victims and survivors of terrorism.
Provides a safe space for victims to connect, build resilience, and advocate for their rights.
Developed from the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism, chaired by Spain and Iraq.
Outcome of UN Congress – VoTAN emerged from the 2022 UN Global Congress on Victims of Terrorism.
Financial Support – Spain has provided funding for VoTAN’s operations

United States has approved a military hardware and logistic support package for India to support IPMDA.

QUAD Initiative – Announced at the 2022 Tokyo Summit by India, Australia, Japan, and the U.S.
Maritime Surveillance – Uses advanced technology to provide near real-time monitoring of maritime zones.
Regional Focus – Covers Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific.
U.S. Military Support – The U.S. approved a military hardware and logistics package for India under IPMDA.

CBI launched Operation Hawk

Aims to crack down on global cybercrime networks involved in online child sexual exploitation.
Follows Operation CARBON (2021) and Operation Megh Chakra (2022) to track suspects and dismantle such networks with international links.

Centre issued Sugar (Control) Order, 2025, replacing the 1966 order to modernise sugar sector regulations.

Replaces 1966 Order – Modernizes sugar sector regulations.
Real-Time Data Sharing – API integration between sugar mills and the Food Department portal.
Expanded Coverage – Includes khandsari (unrefined sugar) and raw sugar.
By-Products Regulation – Covers molasses and ethanol to ensure domestic sugar availability.
Standardized Definitions – Adopts FSSAI definitions for uniformity

The US signed a deal with Ukraine for preferential access to its mineral and energy reserves, including new oil and gas projects.

Strategic Partnership – Strengthens U.S.-Ukraine cooperation in mineral and energy sectors.
Critical Minerals Focus – Likely includes lithium, rare earth elements, and uranium.
Energy Security – Supports Ukraine’s energy independence amid geopolitical tensions.
Investment & Technology Transfer – U.S. firms may invest in Ukraine’s mining and energy infrastructure.
Geopolitical Significance – Enhances Ukraine’s economic resilience and reduces reliance on Russian resources