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GS Paper: GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights.

  • The Drone Revolution in Modern Warfare

    Why in the News?

    On March 29, 2026, reports highlighted the profound impact of Iran’s Shahed drones in the ongoing conflicts in West Asia. These “kamikaze” drones have challenged the supremacy of multi-million dollar air defense systems, signaling a paradigm shift where the economics of attrition are becoming as important as traditional firepower.

    What Makes Drone Warfare a “Game Changer”?

    The rise of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) like the Shahed-136 represents a shift toward Asymmetric Warfare.

    • Cost Imbalance: A Shahed drone costs between $20,000 and $50,000, while the missiles used to intercept them (like the Patriot) cost nearly $4 million each.
    • Swarm Tactics: Drones are often deployed in large numbers to overwhelm sophisticated radar and interceptor batteries.
      • Drone swarms are groups of autonomous drones that coordinate and operate together as a single intelligent system through communication networks, sensors, and AI algorithms.
    • Key Features
      • Autonomous Coordination
      • Each drone can: Share information with nearby drones
      • Adjust movement in real time
      • Collective Intelligence
      • Self-Healing Capability
      • If one drone fails, others reorganize automatically without collapsing the mission.
    • Sustainability: Maintaining an F-16 fighter jet costs roughly $25,000 per hour, nearly the total cost of the drone it is trying to shoot down.
    • Attrition: If a drone is lost, it is merely a financial loss; if a fighter jet is downed, the military loses a high-value asset and a highly trained pilot.

    How Does the Shahed-136 “Kamikaze” Drone Operate?

    The Shahed-136 (and its Russian variant, the Geran) is a “one-way” attack UAV with the following technical specifications:

    • Stealth: It flies at low altitudes (20–30 meters) to stay below traditional radar detection.
    • Navigation: Uses a push-propeller engine (noted for its “lawnmower” sound) and carries explosives in its nose.
    • Range: Capable of traveling up to 3,000 km.
    • Mechanism: It does not fire missiles; it is the missile, detonating upon impact with the target.

    What are the Modern Counter-Drone Solutions?

    To combat the high cost of traditional interceptors (Patriot, THAAD), militaries are moving toward Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) and low-cost interceptors:

    1. Laser Weapons: Systems like the HELIOS Laser (used by the US Navy) destroy targets using concentrated heat. They are extremely cost-effective per shot but can be hindered by bad weather (fog/rain).
    2. Acoustic Detection: Using technology to recognize the specific engine sounds of drones.
    3. Low-Cost Interceptors: * Sting: A $2,000–$4,000 interceptor drone used by Ukraine.
      • Merops: A specialized American anti-drone system being rapidly deployed to West Asia.
      • LUCAS: The US-made “Low-cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System” ($35,000).
    [2025] With reference to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider the following statements: 
    1 All types of UAVs can do vertical landing. 
    2 All types of UAVs can do automated hovering. 
    3 All types of UAVs can use battery only as a source of power supply. 
    Which of the statements given above are correct? 
    (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All the three (d) None

  • What is mineral water and how does it naturally contain dissolved minerals?

    Why in the News?

    There is a growing misconception around mineral water versus treated tap water. The issue has gained attention due to rising dependence on bottled water driven by distrust in public water supply systems, despite the fact that mineral content varies widely and is not always superior. It marks a sharp contrast between natural mineral acquisition over centuries versus artificial purification processes, raising concerns about over-commercialisation of water, regulatory gaps, and public misconceptions.

    How does mineral water naturally acquire dissolved minerals?

    1. Geological Interaction: Ensures dissolution of minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica as water percolates through rocks such as limestone, granite, and basalt.
    2. Pressure Mechanism: Facilitates upward movement of mineral-rich groundwater due to underground pressure.
    3. Time Factor: Supports mineral enrichment over decades or centuries, unlike artificially treated water.
    4. Natural Reservoirs: Includes aquifers and springs protected from contamination.

    How is mineral water fundamentally different from tap water?

    1. Source Variation: Ensures mineral water originates from protected underground sources, while tap water is sourced from rivers and borewells.
    2. Treatment Process: Supports minimal processing for mineral water versus extensive filtration and chlorination for tap water
    3. Chemical Composition: Maintains stable mineral content in mineral water; tap water composition varies regionally
    4. Residual Chlorine: Introduces disinfectants in tap water, absent in natural mineral water.

    How is mineral water packaged and regulated in India and globally?

    1. Regulatory Bodies: Includes Food and Drug Administration, European Parliament, and Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.
      1. In the US and EU, the BIS standard 13428 required water TDS and relative proportions of various minerals to be stable over time and across producer batches.
      2. Producers are also prohibited from treating the water to change its mineral composition, and instead are only allowed to filter or decant it, aerate it and sterilise it. 
      3. Chemical decontamination, such as by adding chlorine, is also disallowed.
    2. Mandatory certification in India: Unlike many food products in India, mineral water requires Mandatory certification.
      1. To sell mineral water, producers must have both an FSSAI license and a BIS certificate and every bottle must carry the isi mark (acc to IS 13428)
      2. Labeling Norms: The FSSAI also requires the bottle to be labelled with the location and the name of the source and level of various minerals, and disallows the packager from claiming the water has any medicinal or healing properties.

    How is mineral water packaged?

    1. Source-based Bottling: Ensures mineral water is bottled directly at or near the natural source, preventing contamination and preserving its original mineral composition.
    2. Particulate Removal: Facilitates removal of physical impurities (e.g., sediments) without altering the natural mineral content.
    3. Non-chemical Disinfection: Uses ultraviolet (UV) light treatment to eliminate pathogens while maintaining chemical integrity of water.
    4. Controlled Storage: Stores water in tanks before packaging under hygienic conditions to maintain purity.
    5. Packaging Materials: Utilises glass bottles, PET bottles, and aluminium cans for storage and transport.
    6. Chemical Inertness (Glass): Ensures no reaction with water, maintaining original composition.
    7. Plastic Interaction (PET): Allows minor leaching over time, especially under heat or prolonged storage.
    8. Sealed Packaging: Ensures tamper-proof containers to avoid post-treatment contamination during distribution. 

    What are the effects of dissolved minerals on human health and water quality?

    1. Calcium & Magnesium: Strengthens bone health; increases water hardness (e.g., scaling in kettles).
      1. High calcium levels render a smooth or slightly chalky sensation while magnesium introduces a subtle bitterness
    2. Bicarbonates: Neutralises acidity; improves taste profile (gives water an almost sweet finish).
    3. Sulphates & Sodium: Sulphates are associated with magnesium rich spring and add a slightly crisp taste and sodium imparts a faint saline note.
    4. TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): Determines water interaction with environment and human body; varies from 500-2000 mg/L in India.
    5. Digestive Impact: Supports digestion through bicarbonates.

    What are the other types of water?

    1. Packaged Drinking Water: Refers to water sourced from surface or groundwater, treated using reverse osmosis, distillation, or deionisation, and may undergo remineralisation before packaging.
    2. Tap Water (Municipal Water): Refers to water supplied through public systems, sourced from rivers, lakes, or borewells, and treated through filtration and chlorination, including double chlorination in some regions to ensure microbial safety.
    3. Distilled/Demineralised Water: Refers to water from which all dissolved minerals are removed, making it unsuitable for regular consumption and mainly used for industrial purposes.
    4. Deionised Water (Industrial Water): Refers to water treated using ion exchange processes to remove calcium, magnesium, and other ions, commonly used in industrial and laboratory applications
    5. Hard Water: Refers to water with high concentrations of calcium and magnesium, leading to scaling in utensils and pipelines.
    6. Soft Water: Refers to water with low mineral content, typically found in high rainfall regions or non-calcareous geological areas.

    Why is distilled or demineralised water not suitable for regular consumption?

    1. Nutrient Deficiency: Removes essential minerals required for physiological functions.
    2. Chemical Reactivity: Increases potential to leach metals or contaminants from containers.
    3. Industrial Utility: Used in boilers and cooling systems rather than drinking.

    How is tap water treated in India and what challenges persist?

    1. Disinfection Practices: Ensures pathogen removal through chlorination, especially in tropical regions.
    2. Double Chlorination: Applies in some regions, increasing residual chlorine levels.
    3. Infrastructure Issues: Leads to contamination via leakages and sewage mixing
    4. Regional Variation: Hard water in Rajasthan, Gujarat; soft water in Himalayan and coastal regions.
    5. Regulatory Limits: Caps TDS at 500 mg/L (extendable to 2000 mg/L if no alternative source exists).

    What explains regional variations in water quality across India?

    1. Geological Factors: Determines mineral content based on rock type.
    2. Aquifer Characteristics: Influences hardness (chalk aquifers lead to hard water).
    3. Rainfall Patterns: High rainfall regions (Kerala, Mumbai) yield softer water.
    4. Urban Infrastructure: Affects contamination levels in cities. 

    Conclusion

    The distinction between mineral water and tap water extends beyond composition to issues of governance, equity, and scientific awareness. Ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable drinking water requires strengthening public infrastructure rather than increasing dependence on commercial alternatives.

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2023] Why is the world today confronted with a crisis of availability of and access to freshwater resources?

    Linkage: The PYQ tests understanding of water scarcity, quality, and regional disparities in access to potable water under GS1 (Water Management). The article explains variation in water quality (TDS, hardness) and reliance on bottled water due to unsafe tap supply, reflecting the broader crisis of access and safe availability.

  • How BioPharma Shakti can transform biologics with non-animal models

    Why in the News?

    The Union Budget 2026-27 launched BioPharma SHAKTI with ₹10,000 crore to build a global biologics and biosimilars hub. This marks a shift beyond generic drugs. The article highlights failures of animal models (e.g., 2006 Northwick Park trial), raising concerns in biologics research. It brings focus on New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) as part of broader technological and regulatory upgrades.

    Why are animal models increasingly considered unreliable in biologics research?

    1. Northwick Park trial (2006): Phase I trial of TGN1412, a monoclonal antibody (mAb), a lab-made protein targeting specific human antigens, caused severe adverse reactions in humans despite safe monkey testing. Shows failure of animal models in biologics.
    2. Clinical failure evidence: Semagacestat (2022) failed in 457 Alzheimer’s patients despite success in mouse models. Shows poor human translation.
    3. Human-specific action of biologics: Biologics such as mAbs act on highly specific human immune pathways. Animal systems cannot replicate this accurately.
    4. Species-specific differences: Variations in receptors and immune responses reduce predictive reliability across species.
    5. Complexity of biologics: Interactions in human biological systems are multi-layered and not reproducible in animals.
    6. Safety risks: Inadequate prediction of human response increases risk in clinical trials. 

    What are Non-Animal Methodologies (NAMs) and how do they work?

    Non-Animal Methodologies (NAMs) are innovative, human-relevant scientific tools, including computational models, cell-based systems (like organ-on-a-chip), and artificial intelligence, used to assess chemical safety, drug efficacy, or toxicity without animal testing. They work by simulating human biology at the molecular, cellular, or tissue level to provide faster, more accurate, and ethical predictive data than traditional animal studies.

    How do NAMs Work?

    1. In Vitro Systems: Using human cell cultures, organoids, or organs-on-chips (e.g., Emulate’s liver-on-a-chip) to replicate human organ function and predict toxic responses.
    2. In Silico/Computational Modeling: Utilizing computer modeling, AI, and big data to predict how a chemical will behave or interact with biological systems based on known data.
    3. In Chemico/Molecular Techniques: Investigating chemical interactions with molecules, such as DNA or proteins, to assess reactivity.
    4. “Omics” Studies: Using genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to analyze cellular responses, focusing on molecular events rather than late-stage pathology.

    Where are NAMs being implemented?

    1. India: New Drugs and Clinical Trials Rules, 2023 enable use of non-animal data.
    2. Global trend: Regulators example in UK are encouraging shift toward human-relevant models. 

    What are Biologics?

    Biologics are complex, high-precision medicines derived from living sources, such as human, animal, or microorganism cells, rather than chemical synthesis. Used to treat diseases like cancer, autoimmune disorders, and rare genetic conditions, they are administered via injection or infusion to target specific molecular pathways. 

    Key Aspects of Biologics

    1. Composition: They are large, intricate molecules, such as proteins, antibodies, or gene therapies, making them much more complex than small-molecule chemical drugs
    2. Production: Unlike synthetic drugs, biologics are “grown” or manufactured using engineered cells in a laboratory, requiring rigorous production monitoring
    3. Administration: Because they are large, delicate molecules that would be broken down by stomach acid, they are given by injection or intravenous (IV) infusion
    4. Mechanism: They are targeted therapies, designed to interact with specific parts of the immune system or other biological pathways to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis.

    How does BioPharma SHAKTI aim to transform India’s biologics sector?

    1. Domestic manufacturing push: Strengthens local production of biologics and biosimilars.
    2. Innovation ecosystem: Supports development of advanced human-relevant models.
    3. Cost efficiency: Reduces drug development costs by 10-26% (2019 analysis).
    4. Time reduction: Shortens lead optimization timelines by ~15%.
    5. Global competitiveness: Positions India as a hub for next-generation drug development. 

    What are the economic and regulatory challenges in adopting NAMs?

    1. High infrastructure costs: Requires investment of ₹10,000 crore under BioPharma SHAKTI.
    2. Patent barriers: Extended exclusivity (e.g., trastuzumab case) delays biosimilar entry until 2018.
    3. Regulatory lag: CDSCO approvals based on outdated guidelines.
    4. Validation challenges: Lack of standardized protocols for NAMs.
    5. Investor hesitation: Limited risk appetite in emerging technologies. 

    How can NAMs improve efficiency and outcomes in drug development?

    1. Precision medicine: Enables patient-specific testing using human cells.
    2. Reduced attrition rates: Improves success rates in clinical trials.
    3. Ethical compliance: Aligns with global shift toward cruelty-free testing.
    4. Faster approvals: Reliable data accelerates regulatory processes.
    5. Better disease modelling: Particularly useful for complex diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s. 

    Why is regulatory reform crucial for the success of BioPharma SHAKTI?

    1. Policy alignment: Ensures NAMs are integrated into approval frameworks.
    2. Guideline modernization: Updates CDSCO standards for emerging technologies.
    3. Validation systems: Establishes independent validation mechanisms.
    4. Industry confidence: Encourages investment and adoption.
    5. Global harmonization: Aligns India with EU and US regulatory practices. 

    Conclusion

    BioPharma SHAKTI represents a paradigm shift toward human-centric drug development. Its success depends on regulatory reforms, investment, and industry collaboration. Transitioning from animal models to NAMs enhances safety, efficiency, and ethical compliance, positioning India as a leader in biologics innovation.

    PYQ Relevance

    [UPSC 2018] Why is there so much activity in the field of biotechnology in our country? How has this activity benefitted the field of biopharma?

    Linkage: This PYQ highlights growth of biotechnology in driving biopharma innovation, biologics, and advanced drug development systems. BioPharma SHAKTI and shift to human-relevant models (NAMs) reflect this transition toward more reliable and modern biopharmaceutical research.

  • Assam to Launch AssamSAT: First State Level Satellite Constellation for Flood Monitoring

    Why in News

    Assam has become the first Indian State to float a tender for earth observation satellites to monitor floods, borders and environmental threats.

    AssamSAT Project

    • Mission Name: AssamSAT
    • Announced in: Assam Budget 2025-26
    • Issued by: Assam Science Technology and Environment Council
    • Type: Earth observation satellite constellation
    • Orbit: Low Earth Orbit

    Key Features

    • At least five satellites to be deployed
    • Private companies invited to: Design, Build, Launch, Operate and Transfer satellites to State ownership

    Objectives

    1. Flood Monitoring

    • Monitor Brahmaputra valley floods
    • Real time flood mapping
    • Faster disaster response

    2. Surveillance

    • Monitor chars or river islands
    • Track infiltration along Bangladesh border
    • Improve security in remote regions
    • Track: Poaching in Kaziranga National Park, Drug trafficking routes and Land changes
    [2019] For the measurement/estimation of which of the following are satellite images/remote sensing data used? 
    1 Chlorophyll content in the vegetation of a specific location 
    2 Greenhouse gas emissions from rice paddies of a specific location 
    3 Land surface temperatures of a specific location 
    Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • IVRI Produces Sahiwal Calves Using Advanced Reproductive Technology

    Why in the News

    The Indian Veterinary Research Institute successfully produced Sahiwal breed calves using advanced Assisted Reproductive Technologies, marking a major breakthrough in genetic improvement of indigenous cattle.

    Key Highlights

    • Institute: ICAR–Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly
    • Breed: Sahiwal indigenous cattle
    • Technology used:
      • Ovum Pick Up (OPU)
      • In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)
      • Embryo Transfer (ET)
    • Five healthy Sahiwal calves born within five days starting 28 February 2026

    What is OPU-IVF-ET Technology

    • Ovum Pick-Up (OPU): Ultrasound-guided collection of eggs from elite female animals
    • In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Fertilisation in laboratory using selected superior semen
    • Embryo Transfer (ET): Developed embryos transferred to surrogate mothers
      • Enables rapid multiplication of superior genetics

    Why the Sahiwal Breed is Important

    • Indigenous dairy breed
    • Heat tolerant
    • Disease resistant
    • Suitable for tropical climates
    • High milk productivity among native breeds
    [2017] What is the application of Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology? (a) Production of biolarvicides (b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics (c) Reproductive cloning of animals (d) Production of organisms free of diseases

  • DEFENCE NEWS 2026

    1. Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP)

    • Launched: 1983
    • Leader: A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
    • Objective: Self-reliance in missile technology
    • Duration: 1983 to 2012

    Missiles (PATNA):

    • Prithvi: Surface to Surface
    • Agni: Ballistic (later separated)
    • Trishul: Short range SAM
    • Nag: Anti tank, fire and forget
    • Akash: Medium range SAM

    Keywords: Self-reliance, Indigenous missiles, Strategic deterrence

    Prelims Traps:

    • IGMDP not ongoing
    • Agni separated from programme

    2. Ballistic vs Cruise Missiles

    Ballistic Missile:

    • Path: Parabolic trajectory
    • Propulsion: Initial phase only
    • Altitude: Outside atmosphere
    • Speed: Hypersonic

    Cruise Missile:

    • Path: Aircraft-like
    • Propulsion: Continuous
    • Altitude: Low altitude
    • Accuracy: High

    Keywords: Trajectory, Propulsion, Detection

    Prelims Traps:

    • Cruise missiles harder to detect
    • Ballistic missiles less maneuverable

    3. Hypersonic Technology

    • Speed: Mach 5 and above

    Types:

    • HGV: Rocket launched, glide phase
    • Hypersonic Cruise: Scramjet powered

    India:

    • HSTDV by DRDO
    • Scramjet tested by ISRO

    Engine Types:

    • Ramjet: Subsonic combustion
    • Scramjet: Supersonic combustion

    Keywords: Mach 5, Scramjet, Hypersonic

    Prelims Traps:

    • Scramjet requires very high initial speed

    4. Agni Series Missiles

    Agni V:

    • Range: Greater than 5000 km
    • Type: Ballistic
    • Feature: MIRV capable

    Agni Prime:

    • Range: 1000 to 2000 km
    • Feature: Canisterised

    Keywords: MIRV, Canisterisation, Strategic missile

    Prelims Traps:

    • Canisterisation reduces launch time

    5. Pralay Missile

    • Type: Quasi ballistic
    • Range: 150 to 500 km
    • Payload: 500 to 1000 kg

    Features:

    • Maneuverable trajectory
    • Hard to intercept

    Keywords: Quasi ballistic, Tactical missile

    Prelims Trap:

    • Not a cruise missile

    6. Astra Mk III (Gandiva)

    • Type: Air to air missile
    • Range: 300 to 350 km
    • Speed: Around Mach 4.5

    Platforms:

    • Su 30 MKI
    • Tejas

    Keywords: BVR missile, Air combat

    Prelims Trap:

    • Beyond Visual Range missile

    7. BrahMos Missile

    • Type: Supersonic cruise missile
    • Speed: Around Mach 3
    • Range: Around 350 km

    Developed by:

    • India and Russia

    Variants:

    • Land, Air, Sea, Submarine

    Keywords: Supersonic, Ramjet, Fire and forget

    Prelims Traps:

    • Uses ramjet engine

    8. Akashteer System

    • Type: AI enabled air defence system
    • Developer: Bharat Electronics Limited
    • Induction: 2024

    Features:

    • Autonomous monitoring
    • Tri services integration

    Keywords: AI defence, C4ISR integration

    Prelims Trap:

    • Army focused system

    9. IACCS

    • Full Form: Integrated Air Command and Control System
    • Service: Indian Air Force

    Features:

    • Radar integration
    • Real time data sharing
    • Multi layer defence

    Layers:

    • Counter drone
    • Short range
    • Medium range
    • Long range

    Keywords: Network centric warfare, Air defence

    Prelims Trap:

    • Not a Navy system

    10. Project Kusha

    • Type: Long range air defence system
    • Developer: DRDO

    Features:

    • Interceptors: 150, 250, 350 km
    • Comparable to S 400, Patriot

    Keywords: Missile shield, Indigenous defence

    Prelims Trap:

    • Fully indigenous

    11. Directed Energy Weapon (Sahastra Shakti)

    • Type: Laser weapon
    • Power: 30 kilowatt
    • Developer: DRDO

    Targets:

    • Drones
    • Missiles

    Keywords: Laser, Speed of light, DEW

    Prelims Trap:

    • No conventional ammunition

    12. K 4 Missile

    • Type: SLBM
    • Range: Around 3500 km

    Platform:

    • Nuclear submarines

    Keywords: Second strike, Nuclear deterrence

    13. INS Taragiri

    • Type: Stealth frigate
    • Project: 17A
    • Class: Nilgiri

    Features:

    • 75 percent indigenous
    • Multi mission

    Keywords: Stealth, Naval modernization

    14. Fighter Aircraft Generations

    4th Generation:

    • Maneuverability

    4.5 Generation:

    • AESA radar
    • Advanced avionics

    5th Generation:

    • Stealth
    • Sensor fusion

    6th Generation:

    • AI integration
    • Drone teaming

    India:

    • Tejas Mk1A: 4.5 generation
    • AMCA: 5th generation

    Keywords: Stealth, AESA, AI

    Prelims Trap:

    • 4.5 generation not stealth

    15. Drone Systems

    Types:

    • HALE: MQ 9B
    • MALE: TAPAS, Rustom
    • Loitering munition: Harop

    Indian Systems:

    • Indrajaal: Anti drone dome
    • Bhragavastra: Micro missile system

    Keywords: UAV, Loitering munition, Surveillance

    Prelims Trap:

    • Loitering munition is drone missile hybrid

    16. Sonobuoys

    • Use: Anti submarine warfare

    Working:

    • Dropped in water
    • Hydrophone detects sound
    • Data transmitted to aircraft

    Keywords: Underwater detection, Acoustic signals

    Prelims Trap:

    • Not radar based

    17. Mission Sudarshan Chakra

    • Announcement: 15 August 2025

    Objective:

    • National security shield by 2035

    Coverage:

    • Air, land, sea
    • Civilian infrastructure

    Keywords: Integrated defence, National security

    18. Golden Dome

    • Country: USA
    • Type: Missile defence system

    Features:

    • Ground and space based

    Legal Aspect:

    • Outer Space Treaty bans WMD in space
    • Conventional weapons allowed

    Keywords: Space militarisation, Missile shield

    Prelims Trap:

    • Space not fully demilitarised

  • Quantum Battery Breakthrough  

    Why in the News

    • Scientists from CSIRO, RMIT University, and University of Melbourne developed the first proof-of-concept quantum battery (March 2026).

    What is a Quantum Battery

    • A quantum battery is an energy storage device that uses principles of quantum mechanics instead of chemical reactions.
    • It can charge, store, and discharge energy like conventional batteries.

    Key Quantum Principles Used

    • Superposition: A system can exist in multiple states simultaneously.
    • Entanglement: Particles become interconnected, enabling coordinated energy transfer.

    Key Features of the Prototype

    • Built using multi-layered organic microcavity.
    • Wireless charging using laser.
    • Operates at room temperature.
    • Energy stored lasts much longer than charging time (very high efficiency).

    Unique Property

    • Charging speed increases with size
      • Opposite to classical batteries.
      • Known as quantum advantage in charging.

    Potential Applications

    • Ultra-fast charging of electric vehicles.
    • Wireless energy transfer over long distances.
    • High-efficiency next-generation energy storage systems.

    Current Limitations

    • Still at proof-of-concept stage.
    • Major challenge: extending energy storage duration for practical use.

    Significance

    • Confirms theoretical predictions in quantum thermodynamics.
    • Could revolutionize energy storage, transmission, and efficiency.
    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned? (a) Cloud Services (b) Quantum Computing (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies (d) Wireless Communication Technologies

  • Starship Delays May Affect NASA’s Moon Landing Timeline

    Why in the News

    A report by NASA’s Inspector General warns that delays in SpaceX Starship could affect the timeline of the Artemis Program, which aims to land humans on the Moon before 2030.

    Background: Artemis Moon Mission

    • NASA is working with private companies like SpaceX and Blue Origin
    • The Artemis programme aims to establish sustainable human missions to the Moon and eventually support missions to Mars.
    • Originally, the Moon landing under Artemis III was targeted for 2024, but delays have pushed the timeline to around 2028 or later.

    Why It Is Difficult

    • Starship uses liquid methane and liquid oxygen as fuel. These must be stored at cryogenic temperatures below −150°C.
    • The system must perform multiple docking and fuel transfers in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
    • LEO already has heavy satellite traffic, increasing operational risk.
    [2011] An artificial satellite orbiting around the Earth does not fall down. This is so because the attraction of Earth (a) does not exist at such a distance. (b) is neutralized by the attraction of the moon. (c) provides the necessary speed for its steady motion. (d) provides the necessary acceleration for its motion.

  • [11th March 2026] The Hindu OpED: AI and the national security calculus

    PYQ Relevance[UPSC 2023] Introduce the concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI). How does AI help clinical diagnosis? Do you perceive any threat to privacy of the individual in the use of AI in healthcare?Linkage: The article discusses AI as a dual-use technology with security implications, highlighting concerns about surveillance, military integration, and governance of AI systems. The PYQ connects through debates on ethical risks, regulation, and societal impacts of AI deployment.

    Mentor’s Comment

    The rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has pushed it from a commercial technology to a strategic national security asset. The debate intensified after American AI company Anthropic urged the U.S. government to classify Chinese AI labs like DeepSeek, Moonshot AI, and MiniMax as national security threats. The controversy reflects a deeper policy dilemma: Should AI be treated like nuclear technology requiring strict controls, or like a dual-use digital technology that thrives on open innovation? The issue has implications for military decision-making, global technological competition, and governance of autonomous systems.

    Is AI becoming a national security technology comparable to nuclear weapons?

    1. Dual-Use Technology: AI functions as a general-purpose technology used for civilian innovation and military operations. Unlike nuclear weapons, AI also drives sectors such as healthcare, finance, and digital governance.
    2. Military Integration: AI models assist in accelerating the military “kill chain”, supporting target identification, intelligence analysis, and operational decisions.
    3. Technological Diffusion: AI research occurs across universities, private firms, and open-source communities, enabling rapid global diffusion.
    4. Comparative Argument: Nuclear non-proliferation succeeds due to scarcity of fissile material, whereas AI relies on widely accessible resources like data and computing.

    What is AI model distillation and why is it controversial?

    1. Model Distillation: Distillation involves training smaller AI models using the outputs of larger frontier models to replicate capabilities at lower computational cost.
    2. Industrial-Scale Claims: Anthropic alleges 16 million interactions with its Claude model through around 24,000 accounts, suggesting systematic distillation efforts.
    3. Strategic Advantage: Distillation enables competitors to achieve frontier-level performance at a fraction of the cost of original research.
    4. Intellectual Property Issues: Companies argue distillation violates terms of service and proprietary model safeguards.

    Why are export controls and technological restrictions facing limitations?

    1. Circumvention of Restrictions: Export controls on advanced chips and inputs often face workarounds through alternative supply chains or domestic development.
    2. Human Capital Mobility: AI researchers frequently work across countries, making technological containment difficult.
    3. Diffusion of Knowledge: AI research spreads through academic publications, open-source models, and global conferences.
    4. Policy Ineffectiveness: Restrictions may fail to prevent competitors from achieving comparable performance, as illustrated by emerging Chinese AI models.

    Do corporate guardrails effectively regulate military uses of AI?

    1. Corporate Governance Limits: Private companies can modify or remove safeguards when responding to government contracts.
    2. Defense Integration: AI firms increasingly compete for military and national security contracts, accelerating integration into defence systems.
      1. Example: Some firms accept permissive contracts allowing military use of AI models, illustrating the competitive pressure in defence technology markets.
    3. Regulatory Gap: Corporate policies alone cannot substitute state-led governance frameworks for military AI use.

    Why does AI governance require international cooperation?

    1. Inevitable Military Adoption: Armed forces globally are integrating generative AI into surveillance, cyber warfare, and autonomous systems.
    2. Need for Global Norms: Effective regulation requires plurilateral commitments among states rather than unilateral corporate decisions.
    3. Human Control: Governance frameworks must ensure meaningful human oversight in lethal decision-making systems.
    4. Restrictions on Mass Surveillance: Global norms should prohibit large-scale civilian surveillance enabled by AI systems.

    Way Forward: Strengthening Global Governance of AI in National Security

    1. Multilateral AI Governance Framework: Establishes global rules for responsible AI deployment through platforms like the United Nations and the UNESCO which already adopted the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (2021) promoting transparency, accountability, and human rights protection.
    2. AI Safety and Risk Management Regimes: Strengthens international cooperation through initiatives like the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) and the OECD AI Principles, which promote responsible AI innovation, democratic values, and safeguards against misuse.
    3. Regulation of Military AI Systems: Develops binding norms on autonomous weapons through negotiations under the United Nations Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW), focusing on meaningful human control over lethal autonomous weapons systems (LAWS).
    4. Global Technology Export and Monitoring Mechanisms: Expands export-control regimes such as the Wassenaar Arrangement to include AI algorithms, advanced chips, and surveillance systems to prevent uncontrolled proliferation.
    5. Data Governance and Digital Rights Protection: Aligns AI regulation with frameworks such as the European Union AI Act, which classifies AI systems by risk level and restricts high-risk surveillance technologies.
    6. International Research Collaboration: Promotes open but secure collaboration among states, universities, and companies through forums like the G20 and World Economic Forum, ensuring innovation while maintaining safeguards.
    7. India’s Strategic Role: India can leverage platforms such as the BRICS, Quad, and G20 to push for ethical AI standards, responsible military use, and inclusive technological governance.

    Conclusion

    Artificial Intelligence is transforming the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and national security. Unlike nuclear technology, AI cannot be easily contained due to its open research ecosystem, global talent mobility, and digital diffusion. Effective governance therefore requires international norms, state-led oversight, and responsible corporate practices to balance innovation with security.

  • Chile Eliminates Leprosy

    Why in the News

    The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) have officially verified Chile as the first country in the Americas and the second globally to eliminate leprosy as a public health problem.

    Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease)

    • A chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae.
    • Primarily affects:
      • Skin
      • Peripheral nerves
      • Upper respiratory tract mucosa
      • Eyes
    • If untreated, it can cause permanent nerve damage and disability.

    Transmission

    • Spread through respiratory droplets from the nose and mouth of untreated patients.
    • Requires close and prolonged contact.
    • Not highly contagious.

    Incubation Period

    • Very long incubation period.
    • Average: ~5 years, but symptoms may appear up to 20 years later.

    Symptoms

    • Pale or reddish skin patches with loss of sensation
    • Numbness and nerve damage
    • Muscle weakness in hands and feet
    • Painless ulcers on soles of feet
    • Eye damage in severe cases

    Treatment

    • Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) provided free worldwide by WHO.
    • Combination of medicines:
      • Rifampicin
      • Dapsone
      • Clofazimine
    • 100% curable if treated early.
    • Early treatment prevents disability.
    [2014] Consider the following diseases: Diphtheria  Chickenpox  Smallpox Which of the above diseases has/have been eradicated in India? (a) 1 and 2 only  (b) 3 only  (c) 1, 2 and 3 only  (d) None of the above