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

  • Nabhmitra: Satellite-Based Safety Device for Fishermen

    nabhmitra

    Central Idea

    • The ISRO Space Applications Centre (Ahmedabad) has developed ‘Nabhmitra,’ a groundbreaking device designed to enhance the safety of fishermen during their maritime activities.

    About Nabhmitra

    • Nabhmitra employs satellite-based communication for seamless messaging services while at sea.
    • Weather alerts, cyclone warnings, and other critical information will be conveyed in the local language.
    • Fishermen can send distress messages during emergencies, such as capsizing or fires.
    • The device features an emergency button that enables direct communication with the control center.
    • Upon pressing the emergency button, the control center receives the alert along with the boat’s location. Simultaneously, the boat’s crew receives a response message from the control center.

    Benefits of Nabhmitra

    • Nabhmitra enhances the safety of fishermen by providing swift communication during emergencies.
    • Fishermen receive timely weather and cyclone alerts, aiding them in making informed decisions.
    • The device provides information about shipping channels, maritime boundaries, and fishing fields.
    • In the event of accidents or crises, the device streamlines communication between boats and authorities.

  • Chandrayaan-3 landing site called ‘Shiv Shakti’

    shiv shakti

    Central Idea

    • PM’s recent announcement of naming the Chandrayaan-3 lunar lander’s touch-down site as “Shiv Shakti” highlights the tradition of assigning names to significant points on celestial bodies.
    • The lunar landscape is peppered with such nomenclature, each reflecting a rich history of exploration and achievement.

    Lunar Ownership and the Outer Space Treaty

    • Global Exploration: The Moon, as a celestial body, remains beyond the jurisdiction of any single country. The Outer Space Treaty of 1966 declares that outer space, including celestial bodies like the Moon, cannot be claimed under national sovereignty.
    • Cooperation over Competition: The Treaty fosters international cooperation in space exploration while discouraging exclusive claims. It was developed during the Cold War to promote shared achievements and limit conflicts arising from superpower rivalry.

    Role of the International Astronomical Union (IAU)

    • Global Naming Authority: The IAU, with 92 member countries, plays a pivotal role in naming planetary features, including the Moon’s surface points.
    • Established Conventions: The IAU has overseen planetary and satellite nomenclature since its founding in 1919, aiming to standardize naming practices for better astronomical understanding.

    Nomenclature Process for Lunar Landmarks

    • Initiation: Initial naming suggestions for planetary features arise from IAU task group members or investigators involved in mapping or describing specific surfaces.
    • Review and Approval: Proposed names undergo review by task groups and the Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature (WGPSN). Successful names become official IAU nomenclature and are entered into the Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature.
    • Considerations and Limitations: IAU’s guidelines emphasize simple and unambiguous names, avoiding political, military, or religious significance. Honouring individuals is acceptable after a three-year posthumous period.

    Legacy of Lunar Naming

    • Influential Factors: The quality of images from spacecraft has driven naming. Far-side craters were often named after scientists and engineers. Informal names given during missions eventually received official status.
    • Variability and Symbolism: Not all notable figures are honored with prominent crater names. The selection can seem arbitrary, with scientific prominence not guaranteeing crater-endowed immortality.
    • Cultural Inspirations: The IAU permits names from Greco-Roman mythology for Jupiter and Saturn’s satellites. Giants, monsters, and descendants of mythological figures have been added to the allowable source of names.

    India’s earlier Lunar Naming

    • Jawahar Sthal: India’s Chandrayaan-1 mission’s probe impact site was named “Jawahar Sthal” in honor of Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister. His advocacy for scientific development and research in India inspired the gesture.

  • Indian start-up joins Sodium Ion Battery Innovation

    sodium ion battery

    Central Idea

    • Coimbatore-based start-up AR4 Tech has joined hands with Singapore’s Sodion Energy to revolutionize the energy storage landscape by producing sodium-ion battery packs for both local and global markets.
    • These sodium-ion batteries will find applications in converting conventional petroleum-based vehicles, primarily two-wheelers, into electric vehicles.

    What is Sodium Ion Battery (NIB)?

    • A NIB is a type of rechargeable battery that uses sodium ions as the charge carriers to store and release electrical energy.
    • Similar in principle to lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries offer an alternative energy storage solution with potential benefits such as cost-effectiveness and abundance of sodium resources.

    Key characteristics  

    • Working Principle: Sodium-ion batteries operate on the same basic principle as lithium-ion batteries. During charging, sodium ions are moved from the positive electrode (cathode) to the negative electrode (anode), and during discharge, they move back to the cathode, generating electrical energy in the process.
    • Sodium Anode: In a sodium-ion battery, the anode typically consists of materials that can intercalate (absorb) sodium ions during charging. Graphite and other carbon-based materials are commonly used for the anode in sodium-ion batteries.
    • Cathode Materials: Various materials can be used as cathodes in sodium-ion batteries, such as transition metal oxides or polyanionic compounds. These cathode materials allow sodium ions to be stored and released, enabling the battery’s energy storage function.
    • Electrolyte: The electrolyte in a sodium-ion battery is responsible for facilitating the movement of sodium ions between the anode and cathode during charge and discharge cycles. Sodium-ion batteries typically use a solid electrolyte or a liquid electrolyte containing sodium salts.

    Advantages offered

    • Abundance of Resources: Sodium is more abundant and widely available than lithium, which can potentially make sodium-ion batteries more cost-effective.
    • Environmental Impact: They may have a lower environmental impact compared to lithium-ion batteries due to the more widespread availability of sodium resources.

    Challenges

    • Energy Density: Sodium-ion batteries generally have lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries, which can limit their use in applications requiring high energy storage capacity.
    • Cycle Life: Ensuring a long cycle life (the number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can go through before losing capacity) remains a challenge for sodium-ion batteries.

  • K Kasturirangan explains: Chandrayaan-3 and India’s Evolving Space Ambitions

    Central Idea

    • The successful Chandrayaan-3 mission not only marks a significant achievement for India’s space program but also signifies the nation’s attainment of a pivotal capability: direct physical access to another celestial body.
    • This accomplishment propels India into an elite group of spacefaring nations and affords participation in shaping future planetary exploration endeavors and resource extraction from space.

    Who is Dr. K. Kasturirangan?

    • Dr. K. Kasturirangan is a prominent Indian space scientist and engineer.
    • He led ISRO as Chairman from 1994 to 2003, overseeing achievements like PSLV launches and Chandrayaan-1.
    • Chandrayaan-1, under his leadership, discovered water molecules on the Moon.
    • He’s been active in promoting science education and enhancing research quality.
    • Dr. Kasturirangan chaired the committee behind India’s NEP 2020, focusing on holistic education.
    • His accolades include Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards.
    • He’s been involved in international collaborations and represented India globally.
    • Besides leadership, he’s made academic contributions in space and atmospheric sciences.
    • His influence spans various positions in scientific and academic institutions.

    India’s Integration into Planetary Exploration and Decision-Making

    • Access to Celestial Bodies: Chandrayaan-3 provides India with a tangible gateway to planetary bodies, elevating its status in space exploration.
    • Frontiers of Technology: India’s pioneering capabilities place it at the forefront of space technology, enabling participation in shaping future planetary explorations and resource extraction policies.
    • A Seat at the Table: India’s involvement in this realm positions it naturally within the club of nations that influence and formulate space-related policies, ending a history of exclusion.

    Now, India’s stature in Global Space Dynamics

    • Historical Context: India’s past exclusion from technological clubs has driven its pursuit of self-reliance and global influence, transforming from a dependent to a self-sufficient nation.
    • Space Diplomacy: Space capabilities will play a pivotal role in shaping global equations in the 21st century, and India’s active participation will bolster its international standing.
    • Equitable Contributions: Chandrayaan-3 bolsters India’s potential to play a decisive role in space-related international decision-making, strengthening its voice on equal terms.

    Chandrayaan-3’s Significance for ISRO

    • Planetary Exploration Strategy: Chandrayaan-3 showcases ISRO’s comprehensive planetary exploration capabilities, encompassing satellite deployment, lunar orbits, surface study, and landing.
    • Direct Lunar Access: The mission grants India direct physical access to the Moon, offering new avenues for lunar exploration and resource utilization.
    • Kasturirangan’s Vision: The vision of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, former ISRO chairman, harmonizes with Sarabhai’s principles, building upon a foundation of technological self-sufficiency.
    • Progressive Continuation: ISRO’s pursuits of planetary exploration and Chandrayaan missions align with the trajectory Kasturirangan initiated, enhancing the nation’s profile on the global stage.

    Completing the Transformation: From Development to Exploration

    • Sequential Alignment: ISRO’s evolution from developmental needs to commercial launches and now to scientific and planetary exploration reflects its responsiveness to India’s evolving requirements.
    • Government Support: ISRO’s consistent success has been underpinned by unwavering government backing, which has enabled the organization to expand its horizons.
    • Strategic Role: Space technology’s growing influence necessitates robust capabilities, and ISRO’s achievements foster meaningful international partnerships, enhancing India’s global prestige.

    Conclusion

    • Chandrayaan-3 is more than a singular event; it signifies India’s ascendancy as a formidable force in space exploration.
    • As the nation transitions from a developing to a developed status, its capabilities to explore, innovate, and collaborate extend far beyond Earth’s boundaries.
    • Chandrayaan-3’s impact extends beyond the Moon’s surface, fostering diplomatic connections, winning allies, and amplifying India’s influence on the global stage under the visionary guidance of Dr. K. Kasturirangan.

  • LCA Tejas successfully test-fires Astra BVR Air-to-Air Missile

    astra

    Central Idea

    • The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas has achieved another milestone with the successful test firing of the indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile called Astra.

    Indigenous Marvel of Astra Missile

    • The Astra missile is an indigenous Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India.
    • The missile is intended for use by both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.

    Purpose and Capability

    • Astra is designed to engage and eliminate high-speed, agile aerial targets in air combat scenarios.
    • It boasts advanced air combat capabilities and can engage multiple high-performance targets simultaneously.

    Aircraft Integration

    • Astra is integrated with various aircraft platforms, including the Su-30MKI fighter jet, Mirage 2000 multi-role combat fighters, Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA), MiG-29 and MiG-21 Bison fighter jets, and the Indian Navy’s Sea Harrier jet fighter.

    Features and Specifications

    (A) Design:

    • The missile is designed for high agility, accuracy, and reliability, ensuring a high single-shot kill probability (SSKP).
    • Astra measures approximately 3.8 meters in length and has a diameter of 178mm.
    • It has a launch weight of around 160 kilograms.

    (B) Advanced Variants:

    • DRDO is working on developing an advanced variant called Astra Mk-II.
    • Astra Mk-II is expected to have an extended range of 160 kilometers.

    (C) Guidance and Warhead:

    • The missile utilizes dual-mode guidance for accurate target tracking.
    • It is equipped with a high-explosive pre-fragmented warhead for effective engagement against threats.

    (D) Propulsion and Performance:

    • The Astra missile is powered by a smokeless, single-stage, solid fuel propulsion system.
    • It is capable of achieving launch speeds ranging from Mach 0.4 to Mach 2.

    (E) Launch Range and Agility:

    • The missile’s launch range is approximately 80 kilometers.
    • It can execute maneuvers with up to 40 g turns near sea level while engaging moving targets.

    Collaborative Development

    • Astra Mk-III, a variant of the missile, is being developed in collaboration with Russia.
    • This variant employs advanced solid fuel ducted ramjet (SFDR) engine technology.

    Back2Basics: LCA Tejas

    lca

    • Origin: The LCA Tejas is an indigenous light combat aircraft developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India.
    • Purpose: LCA Tejas is designed as a multi-role supersonic fighter aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Navy.
    • Variants: There are two main variants of LCA Tejas:
    1. LCA Tejas Mark-I: Developed for the Indian Air Force, it is a single-seat, single-engine aircraft.
    2. LCA Tejas Mark-I Navy: Designed for the Indian Navy, it is adapted for carrier operations with features like reinforced landing gear and arrestor hook.
    • Design and Features:
    1. LCA Tejas features a delta wing design for enhanced maneuverability and stability.
    2. The aircraft incorporates advanced avionics, glass cockpit, and digital fly-by-wire controls.
    3. It is equipped with modern radar systems, electronic warfare systems, and weapons integration capabilities.
    • Powerplant: LCA Tejas is powered by a single engine, the General Electric F404-GE-IN20 turbofan engine.
    • Armament: The aircraft can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including missiles, bombs, and rockets.
    • Performance:
    1. The aircraft has a maximum speed of around Mach 1.8 (1,390 mph or 2,240 km/h).
    2. Its operational range is approximately 500 kilometers (310 miles).
    3. LCA Tejas has a service ceiling of around 50,000 feet (15,240 meters).
    • Induction and Service:
    1. The LCA Tejas Mark-I was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in July 2016.
    2. The aircraft has participated in various national and international airshows, showcasing its capabilities.
    • Development and Challenges:
    1. The development of LCA Tejas faced several challenges, including technical and financial issues, leading to delays.
    2. However, the successful development and induction of the aircraft marked a significant achievement for India’s aerospace industry.

  • Gene-edited mustard: Less pungent, more useful

    What’s the news?

    • Scientists have used gene editing to create mustard plants with lower glucosinolate levels in seeds, improving their suitability for cooking oil and animal feed, potentially reducing India’s reliance on imported vegetable oils.

    Central idea

    • India’s domestically grown oilseeds, like rapeseed and mustard, provide cooking oil and protein-rich livestock meals. However, the pungent flavor from high glucosinolate levels limits consumer appeal, and an unpalatable meal poses livestock challenges. A genetic breakthrough offers hope, potentially transforming mustard’s applications.

    Rapeseed-Mustard: A Key Crop

    • Rapeseed-mustard plays a vital role in India’s oilseed landscape, accounting for 42.6% of vegetable oil production and 30.3% of meal production, second only to soyabean.
    • Glucosinolates in mustard seeds contribute to the characteristic pungency of their oil and meal.

    What is glucosinolate?

    • Glucosinolates are a group of sulfur- and nitrogen-containing compounds found in plants, including rapeseed-mustard.
    • These compounds contribute to the distinctive pungent taste and aroma of mustard seeds and other cruciferous vegetables.
    • The glucosinolates in mustard seeds are responsible for their characteristic flavor but can also limit their acceptability for consumption and livestock feed due to their strong taste and potential negative effects on animals.

    The Distinction Between GE and GM Crops

    1. Genetically Modified (GM) Crops:
    • Contain foreign genes from other species, such as Bacillus thuringiensis bacteria in cotton or Bar-Barnase-Barstar in GM hybrid mustard.
    • Subject to stringent environmental release regulations in India, requiring clearance from the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) under the Ministry of Environment.
    • GEAC’s approval is not solely binding; final authorization comes from the Union Government.
    1. Genetically Edited (GE) Crops:
    • Are transgene-free or non-GM, containing no foreign genes.
    • The Cas9 enzyme, used for gene editing, is eliminated in subsequent generations, resulting in transgene-free lines.
    • Benefit from an exemption provided by the MoEFCC on the requirement for GEAC approval for open field trials of GE plants free of exogenous introduced DNA.
    • Approval is now necessary at the level of an Institutional Bio-Safety Committee (IBSC) comprising scientists engaged in GE crop development and the DBT.

    A Breakthrough in Gene Editing

    • Researchers, including those at Delhi University and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, have employed CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to address the glucosinolate issue.
    • They edited 10 out of 12 GTR genes in the Varuna mustard variety, significantly reducing glucosinolate content in seeds while maintaining higher levels in leaves and pod walls.
    • This editing also improved resistance to fungal pathogens and insect pests, enhancing the plant’s defense mechanisms.

    Significance of this development

    • Reducing Edible Oil Imports: India’s significant dependence on edible oil imports, valued at $20.84 billion (Rs 167,270 crore) for the FY ending March 2023, underscores the need to curb foreign exchange outflow and enhance domestic production.
    • Addressing Economic Strain: The extensive import value strains India’s trade balance and foreign exchange reserves, making it imperative to boost self-reliance in edible oil production.
    • Promoting Agricultural Self-Sufficiency: This development aligns with India’s goal of achieving greater agricultural self-sufficiency by reducing reliance on imports and enhancing domestic oilseed production.
    • Impact on Oilseed Crops: Mustard and soyabean, cultivated across 9 million and 12.5 million hectares, respectively, are key to India’s oilseed sector. Mustard’s higher oil-extractable content of 38% accentuates its significance.
    • Nutritional and Livestock Benefits: Mustard’s improved suitability for culinary and animal feed purposes positively impacts both human nutrition and the livestock sector.
    • Scientific Innovation: The creation of genetically edited (GE) low-seed, high-leaf glucosinolate mustard lines and GM hybrid mustard showcases India’s scientific capabilities and innovation in agriculture.
    • Enhanced Food Security: By augmenting domestic oilseed production and quality, this development contributes to India’s food security and reduces its vulnerability to global market fluctuations.

    Conclusion

    • The genetic breakthrough in editing mustard genes offers potential to revolutionize India’s oilseed sector. By lowering seed glucosinolate levels and maintaining higher leaf levels, it improves culinary and feed suitability. As the GE variety undergoes trials, it addresses oil seed production, import reliance, and self-sufficiency needs.

     

     

  • Agnibaan: Pioneering with 3D-Printed Engines

    agni

    Central Idea

    • Chennai-based Agnikul Cosmos takes a significant step as it moves its innovative rocket, Agni-1, to Sriharikota for integration assessments.
    • Successful integration checks could position Agnikul as the second Indian space-tech firm, following Skyroot Aerospace, to achieve suborbital space flight capability.

    Agnikul’s Remarkable Space Vehicle: Agnibaan

    • Agnibaan SOrTeD is a single-stage launch vehicle powered by Agnikul’s patented Agnilet semi-cryogenic engine.
    • In contrast to traditional sounding rockets, Agnibaan SOrTeD’s vertical take-off and precise trajectory enable orchestrated maneuvers during flight.

    (A) Distinct Features of Agnibaan

    • Customizability: The rocket offers custom launch configurations, either single or two-stage launches.
    • Impressive Dimensions: Standing at 18 meters and weighing 14,000 kg, Agnibaan SOrTeD is a powerful presence.
    • Payload Capacity: With a capacity for payloads of up to 100 kg, it can reach altitudes of 700 km in five different Lower Earth Orbits (LEOs).
    • Engine Configuration: The first stage can house up to seven Agnilet engines, powered by Liquid Oxygen and Kerosene, dependent on the mission’s requirements.
    • Versatile Launch: Designed for launch from over 10 different launch ports.
    • Launch Pedestal ‘Dhanush’: AgniKul’s built ‘Dhanush’ supports the rocket’s mobility across configurations, ensuring compatibility with multiple launch ports.
    • Cutting-Edge Agnilet Engine: The world’s sole single-piece 3D-printed engine powers the entire operation.

    (B) Innovative Agnilet Engine

    • Heart of the Vehicle: Agnilet engine, a 3D-printed, single-piece, 6 kN semi-cryogenic marvel, drives Agnibaan’s propulsion.
    • Propellant Composition: The engine employs a novel blend of liquid kerosene and supercold liquid oxygen as propellants, successfully tested at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.

  • ISRO gears up for Aditya-L1 Mission

    aditya-l1

    Central Idea

    • Although the mission launch date is yet to be announced, the Aditya-L1 satellite has arrived at the Satish Dhawan Space Center (SDSC) in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, for integration with the launch vehicle, PSLV.

    Aditya-L1 Mission

    • Aditya-L1’s primary objective is to closely observe the Sun and gather insights into its corona, solar emissions, flares, solar winds, and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs).
    • The satellite is equipped with seven advanced payloads for these scientific endeavors.
    • The mission promises round-the-clock imaging of the Sun, enabling an unprecedented understanding of its behavior and impacts.

    Significance of the mission

    • Solar Influence: The evolution of every celestial body, including Earth and distant exoplanets, is intricately linked to its parent star. The Sun’s weather and environment have a profound impact on the entire solar system.
    • Space Weather Impact: Variations in solar activity can disrupt satellite orbits, damage electronics, trigger power blackouts, and induce disturbances on Earth. Accurate knowledge of solar events is essential for comprehending and predicting space weather phenomena.

    L1 Lagrange Point Advantage

    • Continuous Solar Observations: Positioned at the Lagrangian Point 1 (L1) — about 1.5 million km from Earth — Aditya-L1 will be uniquely positioned to observe the Sun without the interference of occultation or eclipses. L1 is an orbital location where gravitational forces create stable regions of attraction and repulsion.
    • L1’s Significance: The Solar and Heliospheric Observatory Satellite (SOHO) is stationed at L1 and has facilitated groundbreaking solar research. Aditya-L1’s observations will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of solar behavior.

    Comparison with International Missions

    • Closer than Ever: While NASA’s Parker Solar Probe has ventured closer to the Sun, Aditya-L1 will focus on direct solar observations from a greater distance.
    • Technical Challenges: Many instruments and components for Aditya-L1 are being developed in India for the first time, representing both a challenge and an opportunity for the nation’s scientific and engineering communities.

  • Maya OS: Everything you need to know

    maya os

    Central Idea

    • The Defence Ministry is taking a significant stride towards bolstering its cybersecurity by introducing an indigenous operating system named Maya OS.
    • This move aims to replace Microsoft’s Windows OS on all ministry computers, ensuring enhanced protection against cyberattacks.

    Understanding Maya OS

    • Origin and Purpose: Maya OS is a homegrown operating system developed by the Union Ministry of Defence.
    • Name’s Significance: Maya OS draws its name from the ancient Indian concept of illusion, signifying the deceptive appearance of reality.
    • Open-Source Framework: Maya OS leverages the Ubuntu platform, embracing open-source principles by utilizing free and publicly available software. This approach enhances transparency, community collaboration, and customization possibilities.
    • Chakravyuh Feature: Maya OS introduces the Chakravyuh feature, an end-point anti-malware and antivirus software. It acts as a protective layer between users and the internet, thwarting unauthorized access attempts and safeguarding sensitive data.

    User Interface and Features

    • Familiar Interface: Maya OS offers a user-friendly interface, mirroring the familiar look and feel of Windows, thereby ensuring a comfortable user experience.
    • Application Compatibility: The OS supports commonly used software like Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, AutoCAD, and more, enabling a seamless transition for users.
    • Enhanced Security: Maya OS incorporates features such as cloud storage, encryption, digital signatures, and biometric authentication to fortify security measures.

    Development Journey

    • Initiation in Response to Threats: The development of this OS commenced in 2021, prompted by the rise in cyberattacks targeting India’s critical infrastructure and defence systems.
    • Collaborative Efforts: A collaborative effort involving experts from various government agencies like DRDO, C-DAC, and NIC, along with Indian software companies and academic institutions, contributed to the development of Maya OS.
    • Swift Progress: The development of Maya OS was accomplished within 6 months, reflecting the dedication and expertise of the collaborative teams.

  • BPaL Trial yields 85% TB Cure Rate

    tb

    Central Idea

    • The interim results of a randomized phase-3/4 trial conducted in India to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of BPaL Regimen, an all-oral, short-course treatment are promising.
    • BPaL is administered for individuals with pre-XDR TB or treatment-intolerant/non-responsive MDR pulmonary TB

    What is BPaL?

    • The trial uses only three drugs—Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, and Linezolid (BPaL).
    • The treatment duration is only 26 weeks, contrasting with the conventional 18-month treatment involving eight to nine tablets per day.

    Trial Outcomes

    • It offered a significantly reduced number of tablets per day, resulting in better treatment adherence and improved outcomes.
    • Approximately 70% of the trial participants have completed the 26-week treatment, with a cure rate exceeding 85%.
    • In comparison, the cure rate for conventional treatment for DR-TB is 60-65% even with strict adherence.

    Treatment Superiority

    • Advanced TB Cases: The trial participants had advanced TB affecting both lungs, yet the cure rate was above 85%, demonstrating the superiority of the BPaL short-course therapy.
    • Importance of Early Diagnosis: Early diagnosis and initiation of treatment with the three-drug regimen can lead to even better outcomes for patients with pre-XDR TB.

    Issues with the treatment

    • Three to four trial participants experienced serious adverse effects, but these were either managed or occurred too late in the disease’s progression to be helped.
    • Some cases of mild adverse effects caused by linezolid included a drop in haemoglobin and platelet counts, as well as neuropathy (tingling sensation and numbness in the legs).

    TB Menace in India

    • Total TB Cases: In 2021, there were approximately 21.3 lakh (2.13 million) reported TB cases in India.
    • Incidence Rate: The incidence rate of TB in India in 2021 was 210 cases per lakh population.
    • Drug-Resistant TB: The number of drug-resistant TB cases in India declined from around 1.49 lakh in 2015 to 1.19 lakh in 2021.
    • Government Initiatives: To combat TB, India has set the target of eliminating the disease by 2025, and various initiatives have been implemented, including active case finding, screening, and improved access to diagnostic tests and treatment.

    Back2Basics:

    XDR TB (Extensively Drug-Resistant TB)

    Treatment-Intolerant/Non-Responsive MDR Pulmonary TB
    Resistant to most effective first-line and some second-line TB drugs. Patient cannot tolerate prescribed medications or infection does not respond to treatment.
    More dangerous and difficult to treat than MDR TB. Requires exploration of alternative treatment regimens.
    Limited treatment options, higher mortality, and increased transmission risk. Adjustments in drug combinations or dosages may be needed.
    Spreads rapidly, posing a serious public health threat. Crucial to prevent development of extensively drug-resistant strains.
    Requires preventive measures and early diagnosis. Identifying reasons for treatment intolerance and providing support.