Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, in collaboration with other researchers have developed the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant.
What is the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant?
It is a hybrid implant made of metal-based nano-medicine combined with patient-derived blood clotting components.
It is designed to reduce localized tumor recurrence after surgery.
It uses nanotechnology and autologous fibrin (derived from the patient’s own blood) to enhance post-surgical cancer treatment by providing localized therapy and promoting healing in the tumor bed.
How does It Work?
The implant is created using Nano-Micro-Sera (NMS), which consists of drug and metal-based nanomedicine stabilized by the patient’s own serum protein corona.
The hybrid implant is reinforced into autologous fibrin, which quickly bonds with damaged tissue in the tumor bed after surgery.
Once the surgical site is closed, the implant delivers localized chemo-phototherapy, triggering immunogenic cell death (ICD).
This process activates dendritic cells and T-cells, which boosts the body’s immune response and prevents the recurrence of tumors.
Significance of the Implant
The implant offers an affordable and effective solution for localized post-surgical cancer management, especially for marginalized patients.
By using the patient’s own serum proteins and fibrin, the implant ensures personalized treatment, reducing the risk of systemic toxicity.
The implant’s design is resource-efficient, making it accessible for bedside fabrication with simple equipment, ensuring wider availability.
It has demonstrated superior outcomes in suppressing recurrent breast tumors, and its use could prevent tumor recurrence and reducing the chances of metastasis.
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to the use of nanotechnology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology.
2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Expert astro-photographers and astronomers have gathered at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve from for the second Star Party.
Star Party and Its Details
The Star Party at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is a gathering of amateur astronomers and astro-photographers who travel to Hanle to observe and capture celestial phenomena.
It was hosted by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) from and attended by over 45 astronomy enthusiasts from across India.
Participants brought their own telescopes and cameras to capture unique celestial events, including faint galaxies, the Zodiacal Light, and the rare sight of Venus casting a shadow.
About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)
The HDSR is a designated area in Changthang region of eastern Ladakh created tocontrolman-made light pollution and protect the naturally dark night skies.
It spans approximately 1,073 square kilometers and is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
Established to promote astronomy and astrophotography, it offers some of the darkest skies in India, ideal for astronomical research.
Hanley is also the home to second-highest optical telescope in the world, established in 2001 by IIA.
Special Features of HDSR and the Surrounding Region
High Altitude: Hanle is situated at a high altitude, providing clearer skies with minimal atmospheric interference.
Minimal Light Pollution: The region has low light pollution, which makes it perfect for observing faint celestial objects.
Dry Climate: The dry weather in the region contributes to excellent visibility, reducing the impact of humidity on astronomical observations.
Significance of HDSR
Astrophotography and Research: The dark skies allow for detailed observation of celestial phenomena and astrophotography, attracting enthusiasts and researchers.
Astro-Tourism: The reserve fosters astro-tourism, boosting the local economy by creating jobs for guides and supporting infrastructure.
Preservation of Night Skies: It plays a crucial role in preserving the natural darkness of the sky, curbing light pollution in the region.
International Attention: The reserve has attracted amateur and professional astronomers from across India and beyond, making it a hub for astronomical events.
PYQ:
[2018] Consider the following phenomena:
Light is affected by gravity.
The Universe is constantly expanding.
Matter warps its surrounding space-time.
Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Q). The soul of new law, Bhartiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) is Justice, Equality and Impartiality based on Indian culture and ethos. Discuss this in the light of major shift from a doctrine of punishment to justice in the present judicial system. (UPSC CSE 2024)
Q) Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Q) Analyse the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. (UPSC CSE 2021)
Mentor’s Comment: There have been continuous debates around the Legislative vs. Judicial powers. The present case is also not different. The Supreme Court of India is currently reviewing the constitutionality of the Marital Rape Exception (MRE) under Section 63 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which states that sexual acts by a husband with his wife are not considered rape if the wife is over eighteen.
The Centre contends that defining criminal offenses is a legislative matter, although the Supreme Court can assess whether the MRE violates Fundamental Rights under the Indian Constitution. This case has sparked significant debate regarding women’s rights and bodily autonomy in India.
_
Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
The Supreme Court of India is examining the constitutionality of Section 63, Marital Rape Exception (MRE) in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which exempts husbands from rape charges involving their wives over eighteen.
The Centre has filed an affidavit supporting this exception, addressing legal concerns related to Articles 14 and 21, highlighting the ongoing debate over women’s rights and bodily autonomy in India.
What are the challenges highlighted by the Central government?
1) The issue of ‘expectation’:
The Centre argues that the Marital Rape Exception (MRE) does not violate Article 14 (right to equality) because married and unmarried women are not in the same position.
It claims that marriage creates a “continuing expectation of reasonable sexual access,” which justifies distinguishing between non-consensual sex within and outside marriage.
The concept of “reasonable sexual access” is criticized as vague, raising questions about who defines it and whether it is subjective or objective.
2) The issue over Marriage institutions and the misuse of law:
The Centre argues that recognizing marital rape as a criminal offense could undermine the sanctity of marriage and lead to false allegations that are hard to disprove.
The argument about the potential misuse of marital rape allegations is seen as a distraction, as any criminal offense can be misused, and trials are designed to determine the validity of claims.
The Centre emphasizes that various laws like, Sections 354, 498A IPC, and the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act already provide remedies for violations of consent within marriage
3) The arguments on the Court’s jurisdiction:
The Centre claims marital rape is a social issue, arguing it falls outside the Court’s jurisdiction, despite the law regulating many aspects of life.
The Centre asserts that Court’s task is to determine if the Marital Rape Exception (MRE) violates Fundamental Rights, not to decide if marital rape should be criminalized.
Many arguments in favor of MRE presented by the Centre are seen as lacking strong legal justification.
What role should Parliament play in addressing marital rape?
Consultation with Stakeholders: Engaging in extensive consultations including women’s rights groups, legal experts, and social scientists will help.
It needs to Promote awareness about consent and the implications of marital rape to shift societal attitudes and foster a culture that respects women’s rights within marriage.
Balancing Rights and Social Norms: Weighing the need for women’s rights and bodily autonomy against traditional views of marriage as an inviolable institution, and ensure that any reforms need to respect both individual rights and societal values.
Updating Legal Framework: Reforming existing laws to provide adequate protection for victims of marital abuse without undermining the institution of marriage, ensuring that legal remedies are effective and accessible.
Parliament also needs to review current legal provisions to ensure they adequately address violations of consent within marriage.
Way Forward:
MRE, being a ‘law’, is subject to Part III of the Constitution of India. In other words, the Court may not be empowered to decide whether marital rape should be a criminal offense or not, but it is very much within the jurisdiction of the Court to determine whether MRE violates a fundamental right and to strike it down if it does.
Due to rapid urbanization, India is facing the challenge of exceeding global energy efficiency and carbon benchmarks. High-performance buildings (HPBs) offer resilient, adaptive, and self-sufficient designs, promoting healthier indoor environments and better air quality.
What are High-Performance Buildings (HPBs)?
These are structures designed to achieve peak levels of energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort.
They go beyond standard building practices by integrating advanced technologies and smart design strategies to minimize environmental impact, optimize resource use, and improve overall performance.
For example, Unnati (Greater Noida) and Indira Paryavaran Bhawan (New Delhi) showcase smart designs like sun-optimized facades and advanced HVAC systems, reducing energy use.
Key features of HPBs include:
Energy Efficiency: HPBs use cutting-edge technologies like energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart lighting controls, and advanced insulation to reduce energy consumption.
Water Conservation: Techniques like greywater recycling and rainwater harvesting help HPBs minimize water usage.
Sustainable Materials: HPBs use eco-friendly, durable materials to reduce their carbon footprint and increase building longevity.
Site-Specific Design: HPBs leverage natural lighting, ventilation, and terrain-specific water management to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce energy demand.
Building Management Systems (BMS): HPBs employ BMS to monitor real-time performance metrics such as energy usage, water consumption, and indoor air quality, ensuring continuous optimization of resources.
How can HPBs help Indian cities?
Resource Efficiency: HPBs help reduce energy consumption and promote water conservation, addressing India’s resource scarcity and fluctuating energy markets.
Urban Resilience: By being energy-efficient and self-sufficient, HPBs can help cities adapt to rising temperatures and urbanization pressures.
Healthier Environments: HPBs enhance indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and occupant well-being through intelligent systems like air filtration, natural lighting, and smart temperature control.
The strain on Infrastructure: HPBs can relieve pressure on public infrastructure by minimizing resource usage, making them crucial for fast-growing cities.
Sustainable Growth: HPBs are key to driving India’s transition to a low-carbon economy, supporting sustainable urbanization, and enhancing property value through long-term cost savings.
Way Forward:
Scaling Adoption of HPBs: Promote widespread implementation of HPBs through government incentives, regulations, and public-private partnerships, aligning with SDG Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) to foster inclusive, safe, and resilient urban spaces.
Innovation and Capacity Building: Encourage innovation in building technologies and workforce training to develop HPBs, contributing to SDG Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by ensuring energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in cities.
On September 30, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launched the liberalized Mutual Funds Lite (MF Lite) framework specifically for passively managed schemes.
What is a Passive Mutual Fund?
A Passive Mutual Fund is a type of investment fund that follows a market index, like Nifty50, trying to match its performance.
They can be easily tracked, whereas, Active Mutual Funds need expert fund managers to actively monitor them and make investments in securities of their choice accordingly.
Since there’s no need for constant research, analysis, or active trading the costs are lower.
Key highlights of the liberalized Mutual Funds Lite (MF Lite) framework:
Separate Framework for Passive Funds: It is tailored for passively managed schemes, which are less risky and require minimal active management.
Relaxed Entry Requirements: Lowered net worth requirement (₹35 crore), simplified criteria for sponsor eligibility (profitability, track record).
Encouraging New Players: It provides easier entry for new AMCs (Asset management companies) and market players in the passive fund segment.
Governance Flexibility: It has reduced oversight for trustees; operational responsibilities shifted to AMC boards, focusing on fees, expenses, and tracking error.
Cost Efficiency Focus: It emphasizes on lowering Total Expense Ratio (TER) and minimizing tracking error for better returns.
Simplified Disclosures: The Scheme Information Documents (SID) are simplified to focus on key metrics like benchmark index, TER, and tracking error.
Risk Management: Audit committees of AMCs can handle risk management duties due to the lower risk profile of passive funds.
Why a Separate Framework for MF Lite is Needed?
Lower Risk Profile: Passively managed funds are generally less risky because they track established benchmarks like BSE Sensex or Nifty50, reducing the need for active decision-making.
Minimal Asset Manager Discretion: Unlike actively managed funds, asset managers of passive funds have limited discretion in asset allocation and investment objectives. They simply mirror the performance of the benchmark index.
Inapplicability of Existing Regulations: The current framework is designed primarily for actively managed funds, which involve more risks and require more oversight. It is less suitable for passive funds, which operate with predefined, transparent rules.
Cost-Effective Market Entry: To encourage new players and make the passive fund industry more competitive, SEBI introduced relaxed regulations regarding eligibility, net worth, and profitability.
What about risks and disclosures?
Success depends on Total Expense Ratio (TER) and tracking error. Lower costs and minimal deviation from the benchmark are crucial for performance.
Scheme Information Documents (SID) focus on key metrics like the benchmark name, TER, and tracking error, leaving out complex strategies.
Risk management responsibilities are streamlined, allowing the audit committee of the AMC to handle oversight, reflecting the lower risks of passive funds.
Way forward:
Enhance Investor Education: Develop targeted educational initiatives to inform retail investors about the benefits, risks, and operational aspects of passive mutual funds, fostering informed investment decisions.
Ongoing Regulatory Evaluation: Establish a framework for periodic assessment and adaptation of the MF Lite regulations to ensure they remain effective and relevant, promoting competition while safeguarding investor interests.
India’s power regulator, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), has appointed a Single Member Bench to assess the challenges of a sudden surge in power demand.
Projected Power Demand for October 2024
India’s projected peak power demand for October 2024 is 230 Gigawatts (GW).
After factoring in Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) losses, the demand is expected to rise to 232.2 GW.
To meet this demand, an additional 12.60 GW of generation resources is required.
Concerns over Power System Operation:
The steep rise in electricity demand, without enough generation sources, could pose a risk to power system operations.
The Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs) and State Load Despatch Centres (SLDCs) are responsible for conducting operational planning to manage this surge, especially due to seasonal variations.
It was constituted on July 24, 1998, under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998, and later brought under the Electricity Act, 2003.
Type
Statutory body with quasi-judicial status under Section 76 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
Ministry
Functions under the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
Primary Functions
– Regulates tariffs of power generation companies (owned/controlled by the Government of India).
– Regulates interstate transmission tariffs.
– Issues licenses for interstate transmission and trading.
Key Role in Tariff Evolution
– Introduced a Two-Part Tariff in 1992.
– Introduced Availability Based Tariff (ABT) in 2000 to improve grid stability.
Advisory Role
– Contributes to National Electricity Policy and Tariff Policy.
– Promotes competition, efficiency, and investment in the electricity sector.
Licensing
– Issues licenses for electricity transmission and interstate trading.
Grid Operation Standards
Enforces standards under the Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC) to improve grid stability and power quality.
Dispute Resolution
Adjudicates disputes involving power generation companies and transmission licensees.
Collaboration
Signed a MoU with the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in 2009 for enhancing power market regulation and grid reliability.
First Chairman
Mr. S.L. Rao (1998–2001).
PYQ:
[2016] Which one of the following is the purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?
(a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy
(b) Providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018
(c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time
(d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies
India has seen a sharp decline in Academic Freedom Index rankings over the past 10 years.
About theAcademic Freedom Index (AFI):
Details
Released by
Global Public Policy Institute (GPPi) in collaboration with Scholars at Risk (SAR) and V-Dem Institute (Varieties of Democracy)
Published as a part of a globaltime-series dataset (1900-2019)
Purpose
To assess and quantify academic freedom across different countries
Score Range
0 (complete repression) to 1 (full academic freedom)
Scores based on expert surveys and institutional data
Main Parameters
Freedom to Research and Teach
Institutional Autonomy
Freedom of Academic Exchange and Dissemination
Campus Integrity
Freedom of Expression for Academics
Constitutional Protection of Academic Freedom
Usage
Tracking academic freedom trends
Influencing policy
Advocating for academic liberty in different countries
Annual Report
Published as part of the “Free to Think” report series by Scholars at Risk
India’s Performance:
India’s academic freedom score dropped from 0.6 points in 2013 to just 0.2 points in 2023, marking a significant deterioration.
The report categorizes India as “completely restricted”, the country’s lowest rank since the mid-1940s.
This decline is attributed to many factors, including:
Political Influence on Universities
Limitations on Student Protests
Significance
Impact on Democracy: The decline threatens democratic values, as universities, traditionally spaces for free thought and dissent, and are increasingly under political control, limiting student protests and academic expression.
International Reputation: India’s shrinking academic freedom could harm its global standing, making it less attractive to international students, scholars, and research collaborations.
Long-Term Effects on Education: The politicization of higher education may weaken innovation and critical thinking, hindering economic growth and the development of future leaders and policymakers.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted that over the past 25 years, globalisation has led to job losses and dissatisfaction in many societies, as trade has become both globalised and weaponised.
How is trade being weaponised in global politics?
Trade is increasingly being used as a strategic tool by countries, intertwined with national security concerns. Nations impose tariffs, subsidies, and other economic measures as defensive actions to protect domestic industries and geopolitical interests.
Technologies and supply chains are viewed through a national security lens, leading to greater control over economic interactions.
Note:Economic and military power comes under hard power.
What implications does this weaponization of trade have for India and its foreign relations?
Rising Protectionism: India has responded to this trend by imposing over 30 anti-dumping measures against Chinese goods in 2024 alone. These defensive actions are meant to shield Indian industries from what is perceived as China’s predatory pricing strategies.
Impact on Global Supply Chains: As global supply chains become more transnational, India’s ability to secure its interests, especially in high-tech sectors, becomes crucial.
India is balancing its integration into the global economy while protecting critical sectors from foreign influence, especially from China.
Foreign Relations: India’s foreign policy is increasingly being shaped by economic security concerns.
Trade disputes, such as those with China, have prompted a re-evaluation of economic partnerships and collaboration within frameworks like the Indo-Pacific to reduce dependency on potentially adversarial nations.
What historical context informs India’s current approach to trade and international relations?
China’s Entry into WTO (2001): India, like many other countries, faced economic repercussions when Chinese goods flooded global markets after China joined the WTO. This led to job losses and industrial competition.
Globalization and Job Losses: The rapid globalization of the past 25 years has contributed to domestic job losses and dissatisfaction in various sectors in India.
Strategic Autonomy: India’s foreign relations have historically been guided by a principle of strategic autonomy.
This informs its cautious stance on fully integrating into global supply chains without safeguarding critical industries, and influences its desire to promote reforms in Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) to suit developing nations’ needs.
Way forward:
Strengthening Domestic Industries: India should continue enhancing self-reliance through initiatives like Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, focusing on boosting high-tech sectors and reducing dependency on foreign imports, especially from adversarial nations like China.
Diversifying Trade Partnerships: India must deepen economic ties with friendly nations and regional alliances such as the Indo-Pacific, while advocating for reforms in global trade systems like the WTO and MDBs to ensure fair competition and support for developing economies.
The Ukraine war has highlighted the versatility of battle tanks, demonstrating that armor remains crucial on modern battlefields, alongside long-range firepower.
What are the difficulties in Ladakh due to high terrain and altitude?
High Altitude Challenges: At altitudes of 13,000-15,000 feet, oxygen levels are low, causing rarefied air, which affects the performance of engines and machines, including tanks. Temperatures can dip to as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
Logistics and Transportation: Transporting tanks and heavy machinery to these high-altitude regions is a Herculean task due to the terrain. Once deployed, they are kept operational throughout, with maintenance facilities set up in forward areas like Nyoma and Daulat Beg Oldi.
Threat from China:
Chinese Deployment: The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has enhanced its firepower and mechanised units along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This includes the deployment of the ZTQ 15 (Type 15) light tanks and Type 96A second-generation tanks.
Modernisation and Mobilisation: China has also introduced modern wheeled Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and assault vehicles such as the CSK series to the region, indicating a significant military upgrade along the LAC.
Tactical Proximity: During the 2020 stand-off, Chinese and Indian tanks came within 100 metres of each other, demonstrating the heightened tensions and the tactical threats in Eastern Ladakh.
What are the Indian Army’s future plans to fortify the border areas?
Indigenous Development: The Indian Army is developing the Zorawar light tank, specifically designed for high-altitude warfare.
T-90 and BMP Upgrades: India is enhancing the capabilities of existing T-90 tanks and BMP-2 armoured carriers
Long-term Projects: Plans are underway for Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) to replace current tanks and BMPs, with induction expected by 2030.
Procurement Plans: The Army is also evaluating the U.S. Stryker infantry combat vehicle and has initiated the process to procure 100 more K9 Vajra Howitzers to bolster long-range firepower.
Enhancing Infrastructure: Since 2012, India has significantly improved its infrastructure along the LAC, enabling long-term deployment of troops, tanks, and artillery in the region.
Conclusion: The government should continue expanding logistical infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), improving transportation, maintenance facilities, and supply chains to support long-term troop and equipment deployment in challenging terrain.
