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

  • India’s Deep Ocean Mission: A Journey into the Abyss

    matsya

    Central Idea

    • India’s Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) is a visionary initiative aimed at exploring and harnessing the immense potential of the ocean’s depths.
    • Among its groundbreaking objectives, DOM will deploy an indigenous submersible with a three-member crew to reach a depth of 6,000 meters in the ocean, marking India’s first foray into the profound oceanic abyss.

    Deep Ocean Mission Overview

    • Mission Pillars: DOM, principally led by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), encompasses six pillars:
      1. Development of deep-sea mining technologies and a crewed submersible for exploring depths of 6,000 meters.
      2. Ocean climate change advisory services, involving extensive ocean observations and modeling.
      3. Technological innovations for deep-sea biodiversity exploration and conservation.
      4. Deep-ocean survey to identify potential sites of multi-metal hydrothermal sulphides mineralization.
      5. Harnessing energy and freshwater resources from the ocean.
      6. Establishment of an advanced Marine Station for Ocean Biology.
    • Strategic Significance: DOM aligns with the ‘New India 2030′ vision, focusing on a blue economy as a core objective for India’s growth. It is part of the United Nations’ ‘Decade of Ocean Science’ (2021-2030) and complements Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on sustainably utilizing the ocean’s potential for national development.
    • Collaborative Efforts: Multiple MoES institutes, including the Centre for Marine Living Resources and Ecology (CMLRE), Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), and National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), collaborate with national institutes and academia to achieve DOM’s objectives.

    Progress on Pillar 1: Deep-Sea Mining Technologies and Crewed Submersible:

    • ‘Samudrayaan’ Initiative: India’s deep ocean mission, ‘Samudrayaan,’ was launched in 2021 under the leadership of MoES. It aims to reach a depth of 6,000 meters in the central Indian Ocean using the ‘Matsya6000’ submersible, accommodating a crew of three members.
    • Submersible Features: Matsya6000 is equipped with scientific sensors, tools, and an operational endurance of 12 hours (extendable to 96 hours in emergencies). The submersible’s design is complete, with testing and experimentation at a depth of 500 meters scheduled in the upcoming year.
    • Mining System: NIOT is developing an integrated system for mining polymetallic nodules from the central Indian Ocean bed. This mineral-rich region, allocated by the United Nations International Seabed Authority (ISA), includes copper, manganese, nickel, and cobalt.
    • Successful Trials: NIOT conducted deep-sea locomotion trials with the ‘Varaha’ underwater mining system at a depth of 5,270 meters in the central Indian Ocean. Varaha collected polymetallic nodules during the trial, marking a significant milestone.
    • Challenges: Deep-sea exploration faces immense challenges, including high pressure, soft and muddy ocean bed surfaces, power supply constraints, visibility limitations, temperature variations, and corrosion. NIOT and MoES are committed to addressing these complexities.

    Significance of the Chosen Depth (6,000 meters)

    • Strategic Depth: Targeting a depth of 6,000 meters serves a strategic purpose. India aims to sustainably extract valuable resources such as polymetallic nodules and sulphides, with ISA allocating regions in the central Indian Ocean for exploration.
    • Resource Distribution: Polymetallic nodules, rich in metals like copper, manganese, nickel, iron, and cobalt, are found around 5,000 meters deep. Polymetallic sulphides occur at approximately 3,000 meters. By operating at 6,000 meters, India can effectively cover depths of 3,000 to 5,500 meters, spanning its Exclusive Economic Zone and the central Indian Ocean.

    Challenges in Deep-Ocean Exploration

    • High Pressure: Exploring the deep oceans involves extreme pressure conditions, with water exerting tremendous force. Equipment must be meticulously designed to withstand these conditions.
    • Soft Ocean Bed: The soft and muddy ocean bed complicates landing and maneuvering for heavy vehicles.
    • Material Durability: Electronics and instruments must endure underwater conditions, unlike space where objects are designed to function in a vacuum.
    • Extraction Challenges: Extracting materials from the ocean bed necessitates significant power and energy, with the need to transport extracted minerals to the surface.
    • Visibility Constraints: Limited natural light penetration in deep waters poses visibility challenges.

    Matsya-6000 and Varaha: A Vision for India’s Ocean Exploration

    • Matsya6000: India’s flagship deep-ocean submersible combines features of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and autonomous remote vehicles (AUVs). It accommodates a crew of three, is constructed from titanium alloy, and is designed to withstand high pressures.
    • Varaha: Varaha is India’s deep-ocean mining system, operating on the flexible riser technique. It successfully conducted deep-sea locomotion trials at a depth of 5,270 meters, marking a world record.
    • Unique Ecosystem: India is poised to possess a comprehensive underwater vehicle ecosystem, encompassing deep-water ROVs, polar ROVs, AUVs, deep-water coring systems, and more.

    Conclusion

    • India’s Deep Ocean Mission is a pioneering endeavour to explore and harness the potential of the ocean’s depths.
    • With Matsya6000 and Varaha, India is poised to join the selective nations conducting deep-ocean exploration and mining.

  • Lessons in how to build an innovation ecosystem

    Central idea

    India’s innovation journey, seen in Global Innovation Index (GII) progress and Amul’s community success, faces challenges in maintaining Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs). Collaborative clusters like ATL Sarthi highlight the need for a community-driven shift. The way forward involves community ownership, dialogue, and resource provision for continued success in innovation.

    Key Facts:

    • ATL Sarthi Impact: Over 90% of schools in clusters demonstrating high attendance and performance.
    • Green and White Revolutions: Past successes serving as inspiration for future triumphs.
    • ATL Utilization: Challenge of uniform and effective utilization addressed in the ATL Sarthi experiment.
    • Government Vision: Push towards liberating innovation and entrepreneurship from complex processes.

    Key Terms:

    • GII: Global Innovation Index, measuring a nation’s innovation capabilities.
    • ATL: Atal Tinkering Labs, fostering innovation in middle and high schools.
    • ATL Sarthi: Clusters of ATLs overseen by a guidance committee for efficiency.
    • Neoteric Innovators: Term defining students keeping pace with rapidly changing technology.

    Key highlights of India’s innovation landscape

    • GII Leap: From 81 to 40 India’s substantial improvement in the Global Innovation Index showcases a dedicated commitment to fostering innovation.
    • Community-Driven Success Lessons from Amul: Examining the cooperative model of Amul as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in achieving global milestones.
    • ATLs Nurturing the Next Generation Innovators : Understanding the role of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in cultivating a million “neoteric innovators” among middle and high school students.
    • Government’s Vision of Liberating Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Analyzing the impact of the government’s push towards liberating innovation and entrepreneurship from complex processes.

    Key Data:

    • GII Progress: India’s notable rise from 81 to 40 in the Global Innovation Index.
    • ATL Impact: Over 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) engaging more than 75 lakh students.
    • Rural Emphasis: 60% of ATLs strategically located in rural areas.
    • ATL Sarthi Clusters: Implementation in states like Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.

    Challenges in Innovation Infrastructure

    • Infrastructure Expansion: The challenge of efficiently expanding and maintaining the infrastructure of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs).
    • Rural-Urban Disparities: The disparities in ATL infrastructure between urban and rural areas, with 60% of ATLs located in remote regions.
    • Ensuring Effective Use of ATLs: The challenge of uniform and effective utilization of ATLs, particularly in schools facing economic and geographical constraints.
    • Innovation Hubs: The ATL Sarthi experiment, exploring the creation of clusters overseen by a guidance committee to enhance ATL efficiency.

    Way Forward

    • Unlocking Maximum Potential: Emphasizing the timeless lesson that community ownership is essential to unlock the maximum potential of government-led initiatives.
    • Green and White Revolutions Redux: Drawing parallels with past successes like the Green and White Revolutions, envisioning a similar triumph in the age of innovations.
    • Fostering Dialogue: Advocating for the importance of fostering dialogue between government bodies, schools, and communities for sustained success.
    • Resources and Support: Exploring the need for providing resources and support to communities, ensuring their active participation in the innovation ecosystem.

  • NexCAR19: India’s own CAR-T Cell Therapy

    car-t cart cell therapy

    Central Idea

    • India has achieved a significant milestone in the field of cancer treatment with the approval of NexCAR19, its first indigenous CAR-T Cell Therapy, by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
    • Developed by ImmunoACT, an incubated company of IIT Bombay, NexCAR19 is set to transform cancer treatment in India and make it more affordable.

    What is CAR-T Cell Therapy?

    • Revolutionary Approach: CAR-T cell therapy involves modifying T-cells, a type of white blood cell, into potent cancer-fighting cells.
    • Targeting Cancer: These genetically enhanced cells are reintroduced into the patient’s body, where they identify and eliminate cancer cells, particularly effective against blood cancers like leukemia and lymphomas.
    • Game-Changer: Unlike chemotherapy or immunotherapy, CAR-T therapy offers the potential for a cure and lifelong benefits, making it a transformative treatment option.

    NexCAR19: India’s Indigenously Developed CAR-T Therapy

    • NexCAR19 is designed to target cancer cells carrying the CD19 protein, a marker on cancer cells, enhancing precision in treatment.
    • India joins a select group of nations with its own CAR-T and gene therapy platform, reducing dependence on imports.
    • Initially approved for patients aged 15 and above with B-cell lymphomas who did not respond to standard treatments, leading to relapse or recurrence.

    Effectiveness and Unique Features

    • Approximately 70% of patients respond to NexCAR19 treatment, with some achieving complete remission.
    • Lab and animal studies indicate lower drug-related toxicities, including reduced neurotoxicity and Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS).
    • Trials for paediatric patients are underway at Tata Memorial Hospital, ensuring broader applicability.

    Availability and Affordability

    • ImmunoACT is in the process of securing licenses and partnering with hospitals, including Tata Memorial, Nanavati, Fortis, and Jaslok, across multiple cities.
    • CAR-T therapy is expected to be available in a matter of weeks to a few months, pending final government approvals.
    • Initially priced at Rs 30-40 lakh, ImmunoACT aims to eventually reduce the cost to Rs 10-20 lakh, making the therapy more accessible.
    • Approval by regulatory agencies like CDSCO should lead to insurance coverage, but the extent may vary, and discussions with insurers and the government are ongoing.

  • IIT-B pioneers Nanostructured Hard-Carbon Florets (NCF)

    Nanostructured Hard-Carbon Florets (NCF)

    Central Idea

    • Scientists at IIT Bombay have achieved a groundbreaking development by creating a material known as Nanostructured Hard-Carbon Florets (NCF).
    • This innovative material boasts an unparalleled solar-thermal conversion efficiency, surpassing 87%.

    What is Nanostructured Hard-Carbon Florets (NCF)?

    • NCF Development: It is a material capable of absorbing and storing an exceptional amount of heat energy.
    • Stunning Efficiency: It exhibits an extraordinary solar-thermal conversion efficiency of over 87%, absorbing more than 97% of sunlight’s ultraviolet, visible, and infrared components.
    • NCF Manufacturing: The material is manufactured through chemical vapor deposition, making it easily scalable and suitable for large-scale production.

    Science behind NCF’s Efficiency

    • NCF’s success lies in its unique structure, resembling interconnected carbon cones.
    • This structure combines high photon thermalization (efficiently converting light into heat) with low phonon thermal conductivity (retaining heat without loss).

    Applications of NCF

    • Wide Range: NCF can be applied to diverse surfaces, including paper, elastomer, metal, and terracotta clay, making it adaptable for various contexts.
    • Versatility: The generated heat can be efficiently transferred to air or water, making NCF ideal for smoke-free space heating, particularly beneficial in cold regions like Leh and Ladakh.
    • Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective: Unlike conventional coatings based on heavy metals like chromium (Cr) or nickel (Ni), NCF coatings do not harm the environment

    Beyond Solar Thermal Conversion

    • Heating Rooms and Spaces: Hollow copper tubes coated with NCF can heat air to over 72 degrees Celsius, demonstrating potential applications in space heating.
    • Efficient Water Vapor Conversion: NCFs have achieved an astonishing water vapor conversion efficiency of 186%, surpassing commercial solar stills.
    • Sustainable Energy Solution: This groundbreaking technology provides a green solution to the global energy crisis, supporting the transition to sustainable energy sources.
    • Commercialization and Recognition: The project is on the path to commercialization through the establishment of a company at IIT Bombay’s Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. It has received accolades and support, highlighting its potential to revolutionize the solar-thermal energy market in India and contribute to decarbonization.

  • Gaganyaan: Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission-1

    vehicle

    Central Idea

    • ISRO detailed about Gaganyaan mission’s Test Vehicle-Demonstration 1 (TV-D1) Mission which is scheduled for tomorrow.
    • TV-D1 will demonstrate the performance of the crew escape system.

    Flight Test Vehicle Abort Mission

    • Objective: The mission involves launching a rocket to an altitude of approximately 17 km, followed by a simulated abort signal, resulting in the separation of the crew module.
    • Safety Test: The crew module will descend safely using a parachute, ultimately splashing down in the Bay of Bengal.
    • Duration: This comprehensive test mission is scheduled to last 532 seconds, from liftoff at 8 am to the crew module’s splashdown, situated about 10 km from the Sriharikota coast.
    • Empty Module: It’s important to note that the crew module will remain uncrewed during this test.

    What will be tested?

    • New Test Vehicle: This mission introduces the new Test Vehicle, aptly named Test Vehicle-Demonstration 1 (TV-D1), and designed specifically for testing systems and procedures.
    • Crew Module Functionality: A basic version of the crew module, the capsule in which astronauts will eventually journey into space, will be tested for functions such as mid-flight emergency crew module separation and astronaut escape.
    • Technical Terminology: ISRO’s technical definition of the mission is “In-flight Abort Demonstration of Crew Escape System (CES),” which simulates abort conditions during ascent corresponding to a Mach number of 1.2, a critical aspect of the Gaganyaan mission.

    About the New Test Vehicle

    • Cost-Effective Testing: The TV-D1 mission employs a low-cost Test Vehicle, optimized for system testing, instead of the more expensive GSLV Mk III rocket used in previous tests.
    • Innovations: It uses existing liquid propulsion technology but includes innovations such as the throttleable and restartable L110 Vikas engine.

    Key Feature: Crew Escape System

    • Safety Precedence: The TV-D1 mission underscores ISRO’s unwavering commitment to astronaut safety, particularly in emergencies.
    • Environmental Control Systems: ISRO is actively developing environmental control and life support systems for the crew module.
    • Integrated Vehicle Health Management: The program includes an integrated system to monitor the vehicle’s health and initiate mission-abort procedures when necessary.
    • Testing Milestones: Some of these systems were previously assessed in the Crew module Atmospheric Re-Entry Experiment (CARE) and the Pad Abort Test-PAT in 2018.

    Stages of TV-D1 Mission

    • Critical Phases: The mission involves key stages, including the separation of the Crew Escape System from the Test Vehicle and the subsequent separation of the crew module.
    • Parachute Deployment: Parachutes will be deployed for a safe descent over approximately seven minutes.
    • Navy’s Involvement: The Indian Navy will play a crucial role in recovering the crew module from the Bay of Bengal.
    • Milestone Setting: The TV-D1 mission serves as a significant milestone, marking the integration of a near-complete system for flight testing.

    Status of Preparations

    • Unmanned Mission: An unmanned mission is scheduled for early next year, followed by abort missions, with the manned mission targeted for late 2024 or early 2025.
    • Technical Readiness: The human-rated LVM 3 rocket has successfully undergone testing, and essential components such as solid rocket boosters and liquid propellant engines are ready.
    • Training: Four astronauts from the Indian Air Force have undergone training in Russia and will receive further training to prepare for the final mission.

    Conclusion

    • ISRO’s relentless pursuit of space exploration reaches a pivotal juncture with the TV-D1 mission.
    • As India inches closer to sending its astronauts into space, these planned tests and safety measures underscore ISRO’s commitment to ensuring a safe and successful Gaganyaan mission.

  • CAR-T Cell Therapy approved for Cancer

    car-t

    Central Idea

    • The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has granted market authorization to CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T) cell therapy, a groundbreaking cancer treatment developed by ImmunoACT, an IIT-Bombay spin-off.
    • This authorization paves the way for its commercial introduction in India.

    About CAR-T Cell Therapy

    What is it?
    • CAR-T cell therapy stands for chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy.
    • It is a type of cancer immunotherapy that uses the patient’s own T cells, genetically modified in a laboratory to enhance their ability to locate and destroy cancer cells.

    How does it work?
    • T cells are white blood cells responsible for identifying and fighting illness and infection.
    • Each T cell has a receptor that can recognize antigens (proteins or molecules recognized by the immune system).
    • Cancer cells may have antigens that the immune system does not recognize as abnormal, allowing cancer to evade the immune response.
    • CAR-T cells are genetically engineered in the lab to express a new receptor that can bind to cancer cells and effectively kill them.

    Therapy Process

    		 The process involves several steps, including:

    1. Collecting T Cells: Blood is drawn from the patient’s arm, and T cells are separated from the blood using an apheresis machine.

    2. Engineering T Cells: In a laboratory, the T cells are modified by adding a manufactured CAR, and they are allowed to multiply and grow.

    3. Infusing CAR-T Cells: Once enough CAR-T cells are prepared, they are injected back into the patient’s arm.

    • Chemotherapy may be recommended before CAR-T cell infusion to enhance treatment effectiveness.
    • The process can take place in an outpatient infusion center or a hospital setting.

    Cancers Treated
    • CAR-T cell therapy is effective against certain types of cancer, especially when other treatments are ineffective.
    • It is currently FDA-approved for treating haematological malignancies, including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

  • Medicine Nobel Prize 2023 for mRNA Vaccine Discovery

    nobel

    Central Idea

    • Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman, the 2023 medicine Nobel laureates, have earned acclaim for their groundbreaking contributions to the field of mRNA technology.
    • Their work has transformed our understanding of mRNA’s interaction with the immune system, leading to the rapid development of vaccines, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    What is mRNA?

    • Messenger RNA (mRNA) is a single-stranded RNA (Ribo Nucleic Acid) molecule that is complementary to one of the DNA strands of a gene.
    • The mRNA is an RNA version of the gene that leaves the cell nucleus and moves to the cytoplasm where proteins are made.
    • During protein synthesis, an organelle called a ribosome moves along the mRNA, reads its base sequence, and uses the genetic code to translate each three-base triplet, or codon, into its corresponding amino acid.

    What are mRNA vaccines?

    • Such vaccines make use of the messenger RNA molecules that tell the body’s cells what proteins to build.
    • The mRNA, in this case, is coded to tell the cells to recreate the spike protein of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19.
    • It is the spike protein — which appears as spikes on the surface of the coronavirus — that initiates the process of infection; it allows the virus to penetrate cells, after which it goes on to replicate.
    • A coronavirus vaccine based on mRNA, once injected into the body, will instruct the body’s cells to create copies of the spike protein.
    • In turn, this is expected to prompt the immune cells to create antibodies to fight it.
    • These antibodies will remain in the blood and fight the real virus if and when it infects the human body.

    What are other types of vaccines?

    (1) Vector vaccine:

    • In this type of vaccine, genetic material from the COVID-19 virus is placed in a modified version of a different virus (viral vector).
    • When the viral vector gets into your cells, it delivers genetic material from the COVID-19 virus that gives your cells instructions to make copies of the S protein.
    • Once your cells display the S proteins on their surfaces, your immune system responds by creating antibodies and defensive white blood cells.
    • If you later become infected with the COVID-19 virus, the antibodies will fight the virus.

    (2) Protein subunit vaccine:

    • Subunit vaccines include only the parts of a virus that best stimulate your immune system.
    • This type of COVID-19 vaccine contains harmless S proteins.
    • Once your immune system recognizes the S proteins, it creates antibodies and defensive white blood cells.
    • If you later become infected with the COVID-19 virus, the antibodies will fight the virus.

    Back2Basics: Ribo Nucleic Acid (RNA)

    • RNA is an important biological macromolecule that is present in all biological cells.
    • It is principally involved in the synthesis of proteins, carrying the messenger instructions from DNA, which itself contains the genetic instructions required for the development and maintenance of life.
    • In some viruses, RNA, rather than DNA, carries genetic information.
    • The type of RNA dictates the function that this molecule will have within the cell.
    • Aside from the coding region of messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules that will be translated into proteins, other cellular RNA elements are involved in different processes.

  • MS Swaminathan: Father of the Green Revolution

    Swaminathan

    What’s the news?

    • Monkomb Sambasivan Swaminathan, the legendary agricultural scientist widely regarded as the Father of the Green Revolution, passed away at the age of 98 on September 28. His contributions to agriculture in the 1960s and ’70s transformed India’s farming landscape, ushering in an era of food security.

    Central idea

    • The passing of MS Swaminathan marks the end of an era in Indian agriculture. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of farmers and his pioneering efforts in the Green Revolution have left an indomitable legacy. This op-ed is dedicated to the father of the Green Revolution.

    Early life and education

    • Born on August 7, 1925, in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
    • Initially, I aimed for a career in the civil services and even cleared the civil services examination.
    • He switched to agriculture due to his passion, inspired by the Quit India Movement and the Bengal famine of 1942–43.
    • He enrolled in the Agriculture College in Coimbatore to pursue his interest in agriculture.

    Diverse Roles in Agriculture

    • Swaminathan held various significant positions related to agriculture, both in India and abroad.
    • His roles included Independent Chairman of the Food and Agricultural Organization Council (1981–85), President of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (1984–90), and President of the World Wide Fund for Nature (India) from 1989–96.
    • He also served as the Director General of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), among other positions.

    Swaminathan

    The Green Revolution: A Turning Point

    • Swaminathan’s mission was to transform Indian agriculture.
    • Introduced high-yielding crop varieties, improved irrigation facilities, and promoted fertilizer use.
    • Wheat production in India surged from 6 million tonnes in 1947 to 17 million tonnes between 1964 and 1968.
    • The Green Revolution bolstered India’s food security and reduced dependence on imports.

    Swaminathan’s Contributions to the Green Revolution

    • Swaminathan worked on enhancing crop varieties, particularly rice and wheat.
    • He pioneered the development of semi-dwarf wheat varieties to reduce lodging and boost yields.
    • Collaboration with Norman Borlaug resulted in the introduction of dwarfing genes into wheat varieties, leading to the “Wheat Revolution.”
    • Swaminathan recognized the challenges of the Green Revolution, including the displacement of local crop varieties, soil fertility conservation issues, and indiscriminate pesticide use.
    • He also noted the risks of overexploiting groundwater.

    Advocacy for Farmers

    • As the head of the National Commission on Farmers from 2004 to 2006, Swaminathan advocated for the welfare of farmers.
    • He recommended that the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for agricultural produce should be at least 50% more than the cost of production, ensuring fair compensation to farmers.

    Awards and recognition

    • Swaminathan was awarded the first World Food Prize Laureate in 1987 for his contributions to India’s wheat and rice production.
    • He received the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan, two of India’s highest civilian honors.

    Conclusion

    • As we remember the Father of the Green Revolution, we must also reflect on the challenges that persist in Indian agriculture and work towards a sustainable and equitable future. Swaminathan’s vision and dedication will continue to inspire generations of agricultural scientists and policymakers in their pursuit of a food-secure India.

  • M Visvesvaraya: India’s pioneering Civil Engineer

    Visvesvaraya

    Central Idea

    • September 15 marks the birthday of Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya (1861-1962), celebrated for his pivotal role as a civil engineer and administrator during colonial India.

    About M. Visvesvaraya

    • Early life: Born on September 15, 1861, in the village of Muddenahalli, Karnataka, Visvesvaraya commenced his educational journey in his hometown.
    • Academic Pursuits: He pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Madras and later embarked on a diploma course in civil engineering at the College of Science in Pune.

    Career Achievements

    • Engineering Pioneer: After completing his engineering studies at Poona College of Science, Visvesvaraya commenced his career as an Assistant Engineer in the Public Works Department (PWD) of the Government of Bombay at the age of 22.
    • Notable Projects: Among his initial projects was the construction of a pipe syphon across one of Panjra river’s channels.
    • Dewan of Mysore: In 1909, he assumed the role of Chief Engineer in the Mysore service, eventually becoming the 19th Dewan of Mysore.
    • Voluntary Retirement: In 1918, Visvesvaraya took voluntary retirement due to his disagreement with the proposal to allocate state jobs based on caste.
    • Committees and Contributions: Following retirement, he chaired or participated in various committees, including the Bombay Technical and Industrial Education Committee, Bombay University Committee for Promoting Chemical Industries, and the Cauvery Canal Committee.

    Significant Works

    • Block System of Irrigation: In 1899, he introduced the block system of irrigation in the Deccan canals, enhancing the equitable distribution of irrigation benefits among numerous villages.
    • Water Quality Improvement: Visvesvaraya tackled the issue of “muddy and discolored” water in Sukkur, a city on the banks of the Indus River.
    • Invention of Automatic Gates: He invented automatic gates for regulating water flow in reservoirs, securing a patent for this innovation.
    • Implementation at Krishnaraja Sagar Dam: The Krishnaraja Sagar Dam in Karnataka became the first to adopt these gates in the 1920s.

    Global Perspective

    • International Learning: Visvesvaraya travelled abroad to study various aspects of other countries’ systems. During a visit to Italy, he examined soil erosion problems and irrigation and drainage works.
    • Advocating for Indian Contributions: He challenged the perception that only British officers were capable of overseeing advanced engineering works, emphasizing that Indian expertise was valuable when supported by qualifications and dedication.

    Vision for Progress

    • Inspirational Speech: In a speech delivered on March 16, 1912, at Central College Bangalore, Visvesvaraya emphasized the need for India to adopt modern practices, scientific precision, inventiveness, discipline, and economic fundamentals for progress.
    • Promoting Self-Examination: He encouraged a secular self-examination, comparing local conditions in India with global counterparts.
    • Authorship: Visvesvaraya authored two influential books, “Reconstructing India” (1920) and “Planned Economy of India” (1934).

    Impact on Education

    • Education as a Catalyst: Visvesvaraya recognized the critical role of education in shaping an economy during his visit to Japan in 1898.
    • Founding the University of Mysore: As the Dewan of Mysore in 1916, he played a pivotal role in establishing the University of Mysore, emphasizing that educational institutions should mirror real-life conditions.

  • India can now issue OIML certificates: What this means, its significance

    Central Idea

    • India has achieved a significant milestone by becoming a 13th nation as OIML (International Organisation of Legal Metrology) certificate-issuing authority.
    • The other countries are Australia, Switzerland, China, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, United Kingdom, Japan, Netherlands, Sweden and Slovakia.

    Understanding OIML

    • The OIML, established in 1955 and headquartered in Paris, is a renowned international standard-setting body in the field of legal metrology.
    • Its primary role is to develop model regulations, standards, and related documents for use by legal metrology authorities and industries worldwide.
    • These standards are crucial in harmonizing national laws and regulations concerning the performance of measuring instruments, such as clinical thermometers, alcohol breath analyzers, radar speed measuring instruments, ship tanks at ports, and petrol dispensing units.

    India’s OIML Membership

    • India became an OIML member in 1956.
    • Simultaneously, India signed the metric convention, emphasizing its commitment to international standards in metrology.

    OIML Certificate Significance

    • The OIML-CS (Certificate System) is a globally recognized system for issuing, registering, and using OIML certificates, along with their associated OIML type evaluation/test reports.
    • With India’s inclusion, the number of countries authorized to issue OIML certificates has risen to 13.
    • The OIML certificate is a single document accepted universally.
    • For instance, if an equipment manufacturer in Noida wishes to export their products to the US or any other country, they no longer need to obtain certification from one of the 12 other authorized countries.
    • India’s certification is now globally accepted, facilitating seamless exports and international compliance.

    Benefits for the Indian Economy

    India’s newfound status as an OIML certificate-issuing authority offers several advantages for the Indian economy:

    • Increased Exports: Indian manufacturers can now export their products with greater ease, reducing trade barriers and expanding their global market reach.
    • Foreign Exchange Earnings: The certification services provided by India will attract neighbouring countries and international manufacturers. This influx of clients seeking certification services will lead to an increase in foreign exchange earnings for India.
    • Employment Generation: To meet the growing demand for certification services, India is expected to witness a surge in employment opportunities in the legal metrology sector.
    • Resource Efficiency: The streamlined certification process will reduce redundancy and save valuable resources, making the certification process more efficient.