UPSC Key: Chicago Convention, Heat Risk Index, and Strait of Hormuz
As part of your UPSC 2025 preparation, staying updated on high-frequency current affairs and key international conventions is essential. Today’s focus is on three highly relevant topics: the Chicago Convention, the Heat Risk Index, and the Strait of Hormuz—each holding significance across Prelims, GS Papers, and Essay segments.
1. Chicago Convention (International Civil Aviation)
What is it?
The Chicago Convention, signed in 1944, is the foundational treaty establishing the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a UN agency. It sets out rules for international air travel, aviation safety, and aircraft navigation.
Why it matters for UPSC:
ICAO's role in regulating global airspace
India's air safety rankings and audits
Bilateral air service agreements and open sky policies
Cybersecurity and UAV (drone) policy discussions
Relevant for:
GS Paper II (International Relations), GS Paper III (Security), and UPSC Prelims (Organizations and Conventions)
2. Heat Risk Index (Environmental Risk & Public Health)
What is it?
The Heat Risk Index is a metric used to assess the vulnerability of regions to extreme heat. It considers factors like urban heat islands, lack of vegetation, socio-economic status, and public health capacity.
Why it matters for UPSC:
Rising extreme weather patterns due to climate change
India's vulnerability (notably cities like Delhi, Ahmedabad, etc.)
Urban planning and disaster preparedness
Connection to SDG 13: Climate Action
Relevant for:
GS Paper I (Geography), GS Paper III (Environment), Essay Paper, and Disaster Management in GS Mains
3. Strait of Hormuz (Strategic Geopolitical Chokepoint)
What is it?
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the world’s most crucial maritime chokepoints for global oil trade.
Why it matters for UPSC:
Nearly 20% of global petroleum passes through this strait
Strategic interests of Iran, the US, and Gulf countries
Impact of maritime disruptions on India’s energy security
Role of international law and freedom of navigation
Relevant for:
GS Paper II (International Affairs), GS Paper III (Energy Security), and Map-Based Prelims Questions
FAQ – UPSC Key: Current Affairs & Concepts
Q1: Why is the Chicago Convention important for India?
A: It ensures India’s compliance with global air safety standards and affects international air routes, drone regulation, and air service agreements.
Q2: How does the Heat Risk Index relate to Indian cities?
A: It identifies Indian metros like Delhi and Chennai as high-risk areas, helping planners target climate adaptation and public health responses.
Q3: What makes the Strait of Hormuz strategically significant?
A: It is a vital passage for global oil transport, and geopolitical tensions there directly impact India’s energy imports and fuel prices.
Q4: Are these topics relevant for both Prelims and Mains?
A: Yes. These topics are high-yield for Prelims MCQs, GS II & GS III, and Essay writing on global governance, environment, and geopolitics.
Q5: How to prepare these topics effectively?
A: Link static syllabus themes (like treaties, environment, geography) with dynamic current affairs. Use mains answer frameworks and map-based notes to strengthen retention.
Published on: June 19, 2025
Uploaded by: PAVAN
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