23 April 2026 - "Daily Current Affairs" Updates

GS Paper-3: Agriculture / Environment

⭐ Jamun (Syzygium cumini)

⭐ Why in News

• A recent study suggests that jamun

evolved much earlier than previously

believed, with India playing a key role

in its origin and diversification.

⭐ Identity & Nomenclature

• Jamun is an indigenous minor fruit crop with significant commercial and

nutritional value.

• It is known by various names such as black plum, Indian blackberry, and Ram

jamun across regions.

⭐ Distribution

• India is considered the primary centre of origin of jamun.

• It is also found in countries like Thailand, Philippines, Madagascar, and other

tropical regions.

• In India, it grows widely across tropical and subtropical zones.

• Occurs in the lower Himalayan belt up to ~1300 m, and in Kumaon hills up to

~1600 m.

⭐ Climatic Requirements

• Prefers deep, well-drained loamy soils.

• Can tolerate salinity and waterlogging, making it highly resilient.

• Thrives best in tropical and subtropical climates.

• Requires dry weather during flowering and fruit setting.

• In subtropical areas, early rainfall aids ripening.

• Rainfall also enhances fruit size, colour, and taste.

GS Paper-3: Internal Security / Science & Tech

⭐ Prajna System

⭐ Why in News

• The Ministry of Home Affairs has acquired an indigenously developed AI-enabled

satellite imaging system called Prajna.

⭐ Nature of the System

• Prajna is a domestic satellite imaging platform designed to provide real-time

decision support to security agencies.

⭐ Developed By

• Developed by DRDO’s Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR).

⭐ Objectives

• Strengthen internal security through continuous monitoring of sensitive and

strategic areas.

• Support counter-terrorism operations.

⭐ Core Functionality

• Integrates satellite imagery with AI-based analytics.

• Enables generation of real-time, actionable intelligence for security operations.

⭐ Operational Advantages

• Enhances situational awareness in critical environments.

• Facilitates faster and more precise decision-making in time-sensitive scenarios.

GS Paper-3: Defence / Science & Tech

⭐ Astra Mk2 Missile

⭐ Why in News

• India plans to equip Mirage 2000

aircraft with the Astra Mk2 missile,

extending interception range up to

~240 km and strengthening

air combat capability.

⭐ Nature & Type

• Astra Mk2 is a Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile.

• Designed for long-range aerial engagements.

⭐ Development & Collaboration

• Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

• Involves multiple DRDO labs and 50+ public & private sector partners.

• Key contributors include Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

⭐ Background

• Astra Mk1 (range ~90–100 km) is already inducted into the Indian Air Force.

• Integrated with platforms like LCA Tejas and Su-30 MKI.

⭐ Strategic Significance

• Enhances India’s air superiority in BVR combat scenarios.

• Offers potential for defence exports to friendly nations.