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GS Paper: GS3-16.Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology

  • GenomeIndia project complete, PM Modi calls it historic

    Why in the News?

    India has created a database of 10,000 human genomes, covering 83 population groups, which is about 2% of the country’s 4,600 population groups.

    What are the key achievements of the Genome India Project?

    • Completion of Genome Sequencing: The project successfully sequenced 10,000 human genomes from 83 population groups, representing approximately 2% of India’s 4,600 population groups. This data is now housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) in Faridabad, Haryana.
    • Identification of Genetic Variants: Initial analyses revealed around 27 million genetic variants, with 7 million being low-frequency variants not found in other global databases. This highlights India’s unique genetic diversity and the potential for targeted research.
    • Global Accessibility: The genome data is accessible to researchers worldwide, fostering international collaboration in genomics research and precision medicine.

    What are the impact on Biotechnology and Healthcare?

    • Advancement of Precision Medicine: The database is expected to facilitate advancements in precision medicine by enabling researchers to study disease risks and drug responses specific to the Indian population. This could lead to more effective treatments tailored to genetic variations.
    • Potential for Drug Development: With a focus on understanding genetic predispositions to diseases, the project can support the development of new medications and therapeutic interventions, particularly for genetic and infectious diseases.
    • Strengthening India’s Biotech Economy: The initiative is seen as a cornerstone for bolstering India’s biotechnology sector, enhancing its capacity for genomic research and manufacturing.

    What are the challenges? 

    • Data Privacy and Security: India currently lacks a comprehensive Data Privacy Bill, which raises concerns about the protection of sensitive genetic information. 
      • The absence of robust legal frameworks increases the risk of misuse or unauthorized access to genetic data, potentially compromising individual privacy.
    • Ethical Concerns: The use of genomic data for purposes such as gene editing could lead to ethical dilemmas, including issues related to “designer babies” and unintended consequences of genetic modifications.  
    • Public Trust and Acceptance: Gaining public trust is crucial for the success of the project. There may be apprehensions among individuals regarding how their genetic data will be used, especially if it involves sharing with commercial entities or if there are fears about potential discrimination based on genetic information.
    • Integrity of Data Collection: Ensuring the integrity and accuracy of data collection, storage, and usage is essential. 
      • Without stringent protocols, there is a risk that the data may be misinterpreted or misused, leading to flawed conclusions about genetic predispositions and health risks.

    What steps can be taken to overcome the present challenges? (Way forward)

    • Expanding the Database: Experts suggest increasing the number of sequenced genomes to up to 1 million to better capture India’s vast genetic diversity. This expansion would provide deeper insights into genetic variations across different ethnic groups.
    • Funding and Collaboration: Securing additional funding and forming partnerships with leading research institutions can help overcome financial limitations and enhance data enrichment efforts.
    • Ethical Data Management: Ensuring robust data sharing protocols and privacy measures will be crucial for maintaining public trust and facilitating research access while protecting individual identities.

  • Rudra High-Performance Green Propulsion System

    Why in the News?

    Bellatrix Aerospace, the Bengaluru-based space startup, has announced a significant milestone with the successful demonstration of its Rudra High-Performance Green Propulsion System during the PSLV C-60 mission, onboard the POEM-4 platform.

    About Rudra 1N System:

    • The Rudra 1N System is an advanced green mono-propellant propulsion system developed by Bellatrix Aerospace, a Bengaluru-based space technology start-up.
    • It is a cutting-edge solution for space propulsion, designed to enhance efficiency, precision, and sustainability in satellite and space platform operations.
    • Features and Significance:
      • Demonstrated a 1.4-degree/sec disturbance on the Yaw axis and an 80-degree angular rotation during its operational tests, highlighting its precise manoeuvering capabilities.
      • Utilizes a non-toxic, environmentally friendly propellant to minimize ecological impact during space missions.
      • Offers a cleaner alternative to traditional chemical propulsion systems.
      • Entirely designed and manufactured in-house, showcasing Bellatrix Aerospace’s technological independence.
      • Suitable for a variety of satellite sizes and mission profiles, offering scalability.

    About the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4)

    • POEM-4 is a platform developed by ISRO that repurposes the spent 4th stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) into a functional orbital laboratory.
    • It enables cost-effective research in space by hosting various scientific and technological experiments in microgravity.
    • It utilizes the fourth stage of the PSLV rocket as a stable microgravity testbed.
    • It supports diverse experiments, such as studying plant growth, bacterial behavior, and other space phenomena.
    • It thus maximizes the utility of what would otherwise become space debris.
    • POEM-4 was launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, also known as the SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission.

  • Why ISRO’s ‘docking’ mission today is critical for India’s space ambitions?

    Why in the News?

    Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched its Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) in space with a PSLV rocket.

    What is SpaDeX mission? 

    • The SpaDeX mission, or Space Docking Experiment, is a significant initiative by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) aimed at demonstrating advanced in-space docking technology.
    • Docking technology involves manoeuvring two spacecraft into the same orbit, aligning them precisely, and physically joining them to enable modular assembly, resupply, crew transfer, or sample return missions in space.

    What is Space Docking?

    • Space docking refers to the process where two spacecraft in orbit rendezvous and physically connect to form a single entity. It is a highly complex and precise maneuver essential for advanced space missions.
    • Key Steps of Space Docking:
    1. Rendezvous: Involves bringing two spacecraft into the same orbit with minimal distance and velocity difference.
    2. Docking: Establishing a mechanical connection between the spacecraft using specialized docking systems.
    3. Power and Resource Sharing: Once docked, the spacecraft can transfer power, fuel, or crew to support joint operations.

    What is the significance of India’s achievement in space docking technology?

    • Joining an Elite Club: With the successful completion of the SpaDeX mission, India becomes only the fourth country in the world, after the United States, Russia, and China, capable of conducting space docking operations. This positions India as a key player in global space exploration and technology.
    • Foundation for Future Missions: The docking capability is crucial for various upcoming missions, including India’s plans for a lunar sample return mission (Chandrayaan-4) and establishing its own space station by 2035. The ability to dock spacecraft allows for complex missions that require multiple launches and assembly in orbit.

    How does the SpaDeX mission contribute to India’s future space exploration goals?

    • Support for Lunar Missions: SpaDeX is designed to demonstrate technologies necessary for future lunar missions, particularly for Chandrayaan-4, which will involve multiple components that need to be docked in space before proceeding to the Moon.
    • Bharatiya Antariksh Station: The mission is a critical step towards building the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), which will consist of several modules that must be docked together in orbit. The first module is expected to launch by 2028.
    • Satellite Servicing and Interplanetary Missions: The docking technology developed through SpaDeX will facilitate satellite servicing missions and interplanetary missions, enhancing India’s capabilities in space exploration.

    What technological advancements were demonstrated through the SpaDeX mission?

    • Innovative Docking Technology: The mission showcases advanced docking techniques using two small satellites (SDX01 and SDX02), which require high precision due to their smaller size compared to typical spacecraft. This necessitates more intricate maneuvering during the docking process.
    • New Sensors and Systems: SpaDeX employs various new sensors such as Laser Range Finders and Rendezvous Sensors to ensure accurate measurements during docking.
      • Additionally, it utilizes a new processor for determining relative positions and velocities, paving the way for future autonomous docking systems.
    • Biological Experiments: For the first time, ISRO is conducting biological experiments in space with the CROPS (Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies), which will study plant growth under microgravity conditions. This adds a new dimension to India’s space research capabilities.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhancing Autonomous Docking Systems: Focus on developing fully autonomous docking capabilities for complex missions, enabling seamless execution of lunar, interplanetary, and modular space station operations.
    • Strengthening Collaborative Ventures: Leverage international partnerships to exchange expertise and expand applications of docking technology in satellite servicing, resupply missions, and deep-space exploration.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q What is India’s plan to have its own space station and how will it benefit our space programme?(UPSC IAS/2019)

  • ISRO SpaDEx PSLV-C60 Launch

    Why in the News?

    ISRO’s PSLV will launch 2 satellites, SDX01 and SDX02, into a 476-km circular orbit in the first week of January to conduct the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx), marking India’s entry into the elite group of nations capable of mastering Space Docking.

    What is PSLV-C60 SpaDeX Mission?

    • The PSLV-C60 SpaDeX Mission is a landmark mission aimed at demonstrating in-space docking and undocking technology.
    • This mission would position India as the fourth country in the world to master space docking, following the US, Russia, and China.
    • Objective:
      • To demonstrate the docking, undocking, and rendezvous capabilities of two satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO).
      • Facilitate power transfer between docked spacecraft, an essential capability for future space missions.
    • Satellites: (Each weighing 220kg.)
      • SDX01 (Chaser): Equipped with a High-Resolution Camera (HRC).
      • SDX02 (Target): Carries a Miniature Multispectral Payload (MMX) and a Radiation Monitor (RadMon).
    • Configuration:
      • The satellites will be launched using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C60) in a core-alone (CA) configuration, meaning without strap-on boosters.
      • They will be placed in a 476-km circular orbit with an inclination of 55°.
    • Post-Docking:
      • After the docking demonstration, the satellites will continue standalone missions for two years, conducting imaging, natural resource monitoring, and radiation environment studies.
    • Significance: It is a strategic step towards several ambitious space objectives, including:
      • Preparing for the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program
      • Enabling Chandrayaan-4 lunar sample return missions
      • Developing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), India’s proposed space station35

    What is Space Docking?

    • Space docking refers to the process where two spacecraft in orbit rendezvous and physically connect to form a single entity. It is a highly complex and precise maneuver essential for advanced space missions.
    • Key Steps of Space Docking:
    1. Rendezvous: Involves bringing two spacecraft into the same orbit with minimal distance and velocity difference.
    2. Docking: Establishing a mechanical connection between the spacecraft using specialized docking systems.
    3. Power and Resource Sharing: Once docked, the spacecraft can transfer power, fuel, or crew to support joint operations.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

    1. PSLVs launch satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
    2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
    3. GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 and 3
    (c) 1 and 2
    (d) 3 only

  • Google’s GenCast AI

    Why in the News?

    Google DeepMind has unveiled its revolutionary GenCast AI model, designed to predict the weather more accurately and farther in advance than current forecasting tools.

    About GenCast:

    What is it?
    • GenCast is an AI-based weather forecasting model developed by Google DeepMind.
    • It uses machine learning techniques for more accurate and long-term predictions compared to traditional models.
    • Unlike traditional numerical weather prediction (NWP) models, GenCast uses an ensemble of AI-generated forecasts, trained on 40 years of reanalysis data.
    • Outperforms traditional tools in predicting extreme weather, tropical cyclones, and wind power production.
    How GenCast Works
    • Trained on 40 years of reanalysis data (1979–2019), blending historical data and modern forecasts.
    • It is powered by a neural network with 41,162 nodes and 240,000 edges, where nodes process data and edges connect them.
    • A diffusion model that refines noisy data in 30 steps to improve forecast accuracy.
    • It generates about 50 forecasts at once, providing probabilistic predictions (e.g., likelihood of rain, not exact amounts).
    • Generates forecasts in 8 minutes using a single TPU v5 unit, much faster than traditional NWP models, which take hours.
    Significance of GenCast
    • Outperforms ECMWF ensemble forecasts on 97.2% of targets, especially for extreme weather predictions.
    • Provides longer-term forecasts for up to 15 days, with spatial resolution of 0.25° x 0.25° and 12-hour intervals.
    • Offers probabilistic forecasts to help better prepare for extreme weather.
    • Faster processing than traditional models, reducing forecast time from hours to minutes.
    • Sustainability and scalability allow the model to be expanded to other areas of weather prediction.
    • Google collaborates with weather agencies to enhance AI forecasting methods while recognizing the importance of traditional models.

  • What are Hydrothermal Vents?

    Why in the News?

    • Indian oceanographers have captured the first-ever image of an active hydrothermal vent located 4,500 metres below the surface of the Indian Ocean.
      • This discovery is part of India’s Deep Ocean Mission under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, with a total outlay of ₹4,000 crore.

    What are Hydrothermal Vents?

    • Hydrothermal vents are typically found near tectonic plates, where cold water (about 2°C) near the ocean floor mixes with magma, leading to superheated water (up to 370°C) that emerges through chimneys.
    • These vents release mineral-rich plumes, including metals like copper, zinc, gold, silver, platinum, iron, cobalt, and nickel, making them significant for mineral exploration.

    Mineral Potential of Hydrothermal Vents:

    • Hydrothermal vent deposits are rich in valuable minerals such as copper, zinc, gold, silver, and nickel, which are highly sought after for various industries.
    • These vents can remain active for periods ranging from a few hundred years to 30,000 years, making them long-lasting and crucial for mineral exploration.
    • Scientists at NCPOR, confirmed that the image showed an active vent chimney with black smokers, and signs of chemosynthetic organisms thriving in this extreme environment.
      • This discovery enhances India’s Deep Ocean Mission, particularly the Samudrayaan mission, which focuses on mineral exploration from inactive hydrothermal vents.

    About the Hydrothermal Exploration Programme by NCPOR:

    Details
    • A scientific initiative by the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) to explore hydrothermal vents in the Indian Ocean, focusing on the Central and Southwest Indian Ridges.
    • Aimed at mineral exploration and studying ecosystems around hydrothermal vents.
    Aims and Objectives
    • Locate and Study Hydrothermal Vents: Identify active vents with minerals like copper, zinc, gold, and nickel.
    • Mineral Exploration: Part of India’s Deep Ocean Mission, aiming at valuable mineral exploration such as cobalt and platinum.
    • Biodiversity Studies: Understand chemosynthetic organisms that thrive in extreme conditions of the vents.
    Key Features of the Programme
    • Geophysical Surveys: Conducted since 2012 to detect temperature anomalies and turbidity in the water columns for locating vent fields.
    • Use of Advanced Technology: Utilizes Automatic Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and high-resolution imaging.
    • Collaborations: Partners with the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) for exploration in the Southern Indian Ocean.

     

    About the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM):

    • DOM is an ambitious initiative by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) approved in 2021 to develop technologies for deep-sea exploration.
    • Part of the 9 missions under the Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC).

    Important updates in DOM:

    • Samudrayaan and Matsya6000:
      • Launched in 2021 under DOM, Samudrayaan is India’s flagship crewed expedition to reach a depth of 6,000 m in the Central Indian Ocean.
      • The mission will utilize Matsya6000, a deep-ocean submersible designed for a three-member crew.
        • Construction: Made from titanium alloy to endure pressures up to 6,000 bar.

    India’s Ocean Exploration Milestones:

    • 1981: Ocean studies began with a program on polymetallic nodules (PMN) initiated at CSIR-NIO, marked by the collection of the first nodule sample from the Arabian Sea aboard the research vessel Gaveshani.
    • 1987: India became the first country to receive Pioneer Investor status from the International Seabed Authority (ISA).
      • Allocated 1.5 lakh km² in the Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) for nodule exploration, based on extensive surveys by CSIR-NIO.
    • 2002: India signed a contract with the ISA; after resource analysis, surrendered 50% of the allotted area, retaining 75,000 km².
    • Further studies narrowed the mining area to 18,000 km², identified as the First Generation Mine-site.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Consider the following statements:

    1. The Global Ocean Commission grants licences for seabed exploration and mining in international waters.
    2. India has received licences for seabed mineral exploration in international waters
    3. ‘Rare earth minerals’ are present on the seafloor in international waters.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1 and 3 only
    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] DAE-Homi Bhabha Chair Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The DAE—Homi Bhabha Chair for Distinguished Scientists/Professors was launched in 2021 by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

    About DAE – Homi Bhabha Chair Scheme

    Details
    Aims and Objectives
    • To recognize outstanding contributions by scientists, including retired professionals, in atomic energy and related technologies.
    • Allow retired professionals to continue research aligned with the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).
    • Focus on research in sensitive atomic energy technologies, benefiting strategic sectors.
    Provisions and Features
    • Honorarium: Rs. 200,000 per month (capped at last drawn salary).
    • Contingency Grant: Rs. 76,000 per year for secretarial assistance, telephone bills, etc.
    • Equipment and Book Allowance: Rs. 1,25,000 for equipment and Rs. 10,000 for books.
    • Transport Allowance: Fixed monthly transport allowance for those without an official vehicle.
    Structural Mandate and Implementation
    • Eligibility: Open to distinguished scientists, including retirees involved in critical atomic technologies.
    • Tenure: 1 to 5 years, decided by a Selection Committee.
    • Implementation: Administered by DAE, providing research support and necessary infrastructure.
    Present Challenges
    • Financial Constraints: Budget limitations can affect the scale of research.
    • Integration of New Technologies: Adapting to the fast-changing technological landscape poses challenges.
    • Coordination across Stakeholders: Bureaucratic delays and communication issues can arise.

     

    Who was Homi Bhabha?

    The DAE—Homi Bhabha Chair for Distinguished Scientists/Professors was launched in 2021 by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

    • Homi Jehangir Bhabha (1909–1966) was a pioneering Indian physicist and the father of India’s nuclear programme.
    • He founded the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in 1945 and the Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (later Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, BARC) in 1954.
    • Bhabha formulated India’s three-stage nuclear power programme in the 1950s and emphasized nuclear power for military and energy purposes.
    • He was the first Indian to receive the Adams Prize in 1942 and served as the President of the UN Conference on Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy in 1955.
    • Bhabha activated Apsara, Asia’s first research reactor, at BARC in 1956, and was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1954.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Indira Gandhi Peace Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development for 2014 was given to which of the following?

    (a) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre

    (b) Indian Institute of Science

    (c) Indian Space Research Organization

    (d) Tata Institute of Fundamental Research

  • Deepening India’s steps as a key space-faring nation

    Why in the News?

    India has set ambitious objectives for its space programme over the next two decades, focusing on the development of powerful, reusable rockets like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s upcoming Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV).

    What are the recent achievements of India’s space program?

    • Chandrayaan-3 Mission: India successfully achieved a soft landing near the lunar south pole with its Chandrayaan-3 mission, marking a historic milestone as the fourth country to do so. This mission demonstrated India’s growing technological capabilities in space exploration.
    • Aditya L1 Mission: Launched as India’s first space-based solar observatory, Aditya L1 aims to study the outer atmosphere of the Sun, contributing valuable data to solar science.
    • Gaganyaan Preparations: ISRO is actively working on the Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into orbit by 2025. This includes extensive testing of human-rated launch vehicles and crew escape systems.
    • Budget Increases: The Indian government allocated approximately $1.5 billion to the Department of Space for 2024-2025, reflecting a commitment to enhance space capabilities and infrastructure.

    How is India planning to expand its human spaceflight and exploration capabilities?

    • Gaganyaan Mission: This mission is pivotal for establishing India’s human spaceflight capabilities, with plans for multiple uncrewed test flights leading up to a manned mission. The first crewed flight is targeted for late 2024.
    • Lunar Exploration Goals: India plans to achieve a crewed lunar landing by 2040 and establish a lunar space station to facilitate ongoing research and exploration efforts on the Moon.
    • Bharatiya Antariksha Station: The establishment of India’s first space station in low Earth orbit is planned by 2035, serving as a platform for scientific research and technology testing.
    • Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): The development of the NGLV will enhance India’s heavy-lift capabilities, crucial for supporting human missions and larger payloads in future explorations.

    What role does international collaboration play in India’s space ambitions?

    • Commercial Partnerships: India has engaged in collaborations with international companies like SpaceX for satellite launches, showcasing an openness to leveraging foreign technology and expertise in its space endeavours.
    • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Recent reforms have opened up India’s space sector to increased foreign investment, fostering partnerships that can enhance technological capabilities and innovation within the domestic industry.
    • Collaborative Research and Development: By exploring foreign collaboration opportunities, Indian corporations can access advanced rocket technologies and expertise that may not currently exist within the country, accelerating development timelines for projects like reusable rockets.

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Private Sector Engagement: India should actively encourage partnerships with domestic and international private companies to accelerate the development of advanced space technologies, such as reusable rockets and heavy-lift vehicles, ensuring a competitive edge in global space exploration.
    • Expand International Collaborations: India should deepen its space collaborations with countries and space agencies globally, particularly in research, technology sharing, and joint missions, to leverage global expertise and enhance its own space capabilities.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q India has achieved remarkable successes in unmanned space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbiter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission. What are the main obstacles to launching a manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Examine critically. (UPSC IAS/2017)

  • [pib] National AYUSH Mission (NAM)

    Why in the News?

    • The National AYUSH Mission (NAM) is an important Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at promoting and developing the AYUSH systems of medicine across the country.
      • In addition to NAM, Central Sector Schemes like the AYURSWASTHYA Yojana and the AYURGYAN Scheme play a crucial role in advancing the mission’s objectives

    About AYURGYAN and AYURSWATHYA Scheme

    Details
    AYURSWASTHYA Yojana • Under the Ministry of AYUSH to promote AYUSH healthcare and education.
    • Has two key components:

    1. AYUSH and Public Health: Promotes AYUSH interventions for community health care.
    2. Upgradation of Facilities to Centre of Excellence: Improves standards of AYUSH medical units and establishes advanced centers in AYUSH and Allopathic institutions (both Govt. and Private).

    • Funding: Maximum assistance of ₹10 crore for Centre of Excellence upgrades for 3 years.
    AYURGYAN Scheme • Created by merging two schemes under one umbrella.
    • Focuses on promoting AYUSH education and research.
    • Aims to develop quality standards and expand AYUSH education and healthcare services across India.
    • Training of healthcare professionals in AYUSH and supporting research initiatives to improve efficacy and standards of traditional medicine.

    Back2Basics: National AYUSH Mission (NAM)

    Category Details
    Overview   • Launched in September 2014 under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare during the 12th Five Year Plan.
    • Aimed at promoting and strengthening traditional systems of medicine: AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy).
    • Focuses on improving healthcare infrastructure in rural and remote areas, enhancing access to AYUSH services and promoting holistic health across India.
    Implementation and Structure • Initially implemented by the Department of AYUSH, now under the Ministry of AYUSH for nationwide execution.
    • Works in partnership with States and UTs to address healthcare gaps in underserved areas.
    Provisions under NAM • Promotion of AYUSH Systems: Integrates AYUSH into the mainstream healthcare system, especially in rural and underserved areas.
    • Support to State/UTs: Provides financial support for establishing AYUSH dispensaries, clinics, colleges and hospitals.
    • Strengthening AYUSH Health Services: Financial assistance for expanding AYUSH services, especially in remote areas.
    • Research & Development (R&D): Supports research for developing better treatments and standardizing practices in AYUSH.

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

  • Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) Telescope

    Why in the News?

    The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.

    About MACE Telescope:

    Details
    Details and Working • World’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, at 4.3 km above sea level.
    • It has a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, the largest in Asia.
    • Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    • Cherenkov radiation is captured using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Cherenkov radiation is the blue glow emitted when charged particles travel faster than light in a medium.
    • Equipped with a high-resolution camera and movable base.
    Aims and Objectives of MACE • Detects high-energy gamma rays (greater than 20 giga-electron volts) emitted by cosmic phenomena.
    • Detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) for dark matter research.
    • Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy by complementing data from other telescopes.
    How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation? • Cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to mutations.
    • Mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders if not repaired.
    • DNA damage from gamma rays can lead to chromosomal aberrations and contribute to carcinogenesis.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:

    1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
    2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
    3. It is buried deep in the ice.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3