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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.

  • BBX32 Protein in Plants

    Why in the News?

    A new study from researchers at IISER Bhopal has revealed how a single protein called BBX32 helps plants time the critical moment they emerge from darkness into light.

    What is BBX32? 

    • Function: BBX32 is a plant protein that helps a seedling keep its protective hook closed as it pushes through the soil.
    • Protection Mechanism: The hook shape shields the soft shoot tip in darkness; BBX32 extends this protection until it’s safe to open.
    • Ethylene Activation: Underground, the plant hormone ethylene activates the BBX32 gene, signaling the seedling to stay protected.

    How does it work?

    • Light Stabilization: Once exposed to light, BBX32 is no longer broken down, allowing it to accumulate on one side of the hook.
    • Protein Chain Reaction: BBX32 activates PIF3, which then activates HLS1, the protein that directly keeps the hook bent.
    • Lab Testing: Plants were tested in different light types and sand to simulate real soil. Extra ethylene increased BBX32 activity.
    • Mutant Comparison: Plants without BBX32 opened too early. Only 25% broke through sand, compared to 40% of normal and 80% with extra BBX32.
    • Degradation Control: In darkness, COP1 breaks down BBX32. Ethylene slows this process. Light fully stabilizes BBX32.
    • Coordinated Timing: The protein’s behavior is guided by light, hormone signals, and pressure, ensuring the hook opens at the right time.

    Why is studying BBX32 important?

    • Better Crop Survival: BBX32 can help develop crops that grow well in dense, wet, or compacted soils.
    • Climate Adaptation: As climate change leads to tougher soil conditions, BBX32 can improve seedling emergence and survival.
    • Boosting Yields: Supporting hook protection even slightly longer can lead to stronger early growth and higher productivity.
    • Genetic Research: BBX32 is a potential target for gene editing in plants to improve resilience during germination.
    • Broader Insight: Studying BBX32 helps us understand how plants balance internal signals with external cues for safe growth.
    [UPSC 2018] Which of the following leaf modifications occur(s) in the desert areas to inhabit water loss?

    1. Hard and waxy leaves 2. Tiny leaves 3. Thorns instead of leaves

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

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

     

  • Expert Explains: Why Axiom-4 matters

    Why in the News?

    Recently, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla’s trip to the International Space Station (ISS) on the Axiom-4 mission is not just a proud moment but an important step forward in India’s growing space journey.

    What distinguishes Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission from Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 spaceflight?

    Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 Spaceflight Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 Mission (2025)
    Nature of Participation Symbolic participation as part of a Soviet mission Strategically integrated with India’s own space goals (e.g., Gaganyaan)
    Technological & Program Context India lacked space infrastructure and human spaceflight roadmap ISRO is a global space leader with advanced plans, including space station
    Practical Value & Experience Limited scope for operational follow-up and knowledge transfer Provides real-life experience and critical inputs for Gaganyaan and beyond

     

    Why is Shukla’s mission crucial for India’s Gaganyaan programme? 

    • Real-life Operational Experience: Shukla’s direct experience in space provides practical insights that simulations and training cannot replicate. Eg: As designated pilot, he will operate systems, respond to contingencies, and interact with international crew — skills critical for Gaganyaan’s success.
    • Validation of Safety Protocols: Human spaceflight demands rigorous safety and risk management strategies. Eg: Shukla’s feedback will help ISRO refine life-support systems, re-entry safety measures, and astronaut training for Gaganyaan.
    • Technology Testing and Experimentation: Axiom-4 allows ISRO to test custom-designed biological and technological experiments in zero gravity before Gaganyaan. Eg: Muscle degradation studies and moong dal growth experiments can inform long-duration crew health planning.
    • Knowledge Transfer and Crew Preparation: Shukla becomes a knowledge resource for other Gaganyaan astronauts and mission planners. Eg: His debriefings and experience logs can train upcoming Indian astronauts in real mission dynamics.
    • Interface with the ISS and International Best Practices: Gaganyaan and future Indian missions will benefit from understanding ISS operational standards. Eg: Shukla’s ISS stay gives ISRO insights into modular space living, docking operations, international coordination, etc., crucial for building India’s own space station.

    How do Axiom-4 experiments align with India’s space research goals?

    • Focus on Human Physiology in Space: Experiments like muscle behaviour studies in zero gravity help understand health impacts of space travel. Eg: Findings will aid in preparing astronauts for long-duration missions under Gaganyaan and future space station plans.
    • Biological Experiments for Space Farming: Studies on sprouting moong dal and micro-algae explore sustainable food solutions in space. Eg: Results can support self-sustaining life-support systems for interplanetary travel or moon habitats.
    •  Indigenised Research Capabilities: Experiments are customised to Indian needs, marking ISRO’s entry into tailor-made space research. Eg: Conducting India-centric biology and material science experiments builds a national space science ecosystem.
    • Data for Technology Development: Outcomes can validate and improve space health-monitoring tools and biological sensors. Eg: Data from Axiom-4 can be used to refine wearables for vital monitoring in Gaganyaan.
    • Laying Groundwork for Future Missions: Insights from Axiom-4 serve as trial runs for similar experiments on Gaganyaan and beyond. Eg: Positive results could lead to advanced biotech payloads on future ISRO-led space missions.

    What is the role of the private sector in India’s space economy?

    • Enhancing Innovation and R&D: Private companies foster cutting-edge research and technological advancements in space applications. Eg: Startups like Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos are developing indigenous launch vehicles.
    • Reducing Burden on ISRO: Private participation allows ISRO to focus on core research and strategic missions, while routine tasks are outsourced. Eg: Satellite manufacturing and component fabrication are now being handled by private firms.
    • Boosting Economic Contribution: Expanding private sector involvement helps increase India’s share in the global space market, currently at just 2%. Eg: With policy support, India aims to capture 10% of the $1 trillion space economy by 2030.
    • Job Creation and Skill Development: The growth of private space ventures leads to new employment opportunities and capacity building. Eg: Space-tech startups are hiring young engineers, promoting STEM education and aerospace skills.
    •  Encouraging Global Collaborations: Private firms enable international partnerships and technology transfers, enhancing global credibility. Eg: Pixxel has partnered with international clients for hyperspectral imaging satellites.

    Way forward: 

    • Establish a Robust Regulatory Framework: Create a clear, transparent, and enabling policy environment through institutions like IN-SPACe to facilitate private investments, streamline licensing, and ensure intellectual property protection.
    • Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Promote joint missions, co-development of technologies, and knowledge sharing between ISRO and private companies to accelerate innovation and reduce development costs.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2017] India has successfully achieved several milestones in space missions including the Chandrayaan and Mars Orbitter Mission, but has not ventured into manned space mission, both in terms of technology and logistics? Explain critically.

    Linkage:  The article “India’s New Era of Human Spaceflight” explicitly states that Shubhanshu Shukla’s Axiom-4 mission is designed to provide critical inputs for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission, which is the nation’s first human spaceflight, thereby filling this very gap in technology and logistics.

  • Voyager Tardigrades Experiment

    Why in the News?

    As part of his upcoming two-week stay on the International Space Station (ISS) under Axiom-4 Mission, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will conduct the Voyager Tardigrades experiment.

    Voyager Tardigrades Experiment

    What are Tardigrades?

    • Tardigrades, also called “water bears” or “moss piglets”, are microscopic aquatic animals that have existed for around 600 million years.
    • They are about 0.5 mm long, with four pairs of clawed legs and a specialized mouth for sucking nutrients from plant cells and tiny invertebrates.
    • Tardigrades live in diverse habitats, including mosses, lichens, mountaintops, ocean depths, and even Antarctica.
    • They are famous for their extreme resilience, having survived all five major mass extinction events and capable of enduring conditions that would kill most other life forms.

    About Voyager Tardigrades Experiment:

    • Overview: The experiment will be conducted by Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla during his mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
    • Experimental Process: Tardigrades will be transported in their dormant “tun” state, then revived and observed in microgravity conditions.
    • Research Focus: The experiment will examine how space radiation and microgravity affect tardigrade survival, reproduction, and DNA repair mechanisms.
    • Scientific Objective: Researchers aim to identify genes responsible for space resilience in tardigrades and apply these insights to enhance astronaut protection and preserve biological materials during long-term space travel.

    Significance of Tardigrades in Space Research:

    • Extreme Survivors: They are among the most resilient organisms on Earth, capable of surviving temperatures from near absolute zero to over 150°C, intense radiation, deep-sea pressure, and even the vacuum of space.
    • Dormancy Mechanisms: Their survival strategy relies on cryptobiosis and anhydrobiosis, where their metabolism drops nearly to zero and water content is drastically reduced.
    • Protective Proteins: They produce unique proteins like CAHS, which form a gel-like matrix around cells to protect them from damage in extreme environments.
    • Biomedical Applications: Studying these proteins may help scientists develop radiation shields for astronauts, preserve human tissues and organs, and advance cryopreservation techniques.
    • Agricultural and Material Use: Insights from tardigrades could also lead to engineering drought-resistant crops and designing new biomaterials for use on Earth and in space.
    [UPSC 2012] Other than resistance to pests, what are the prospects for which genetically engineered plants have been created?

    1. To enable them to withstand drought

    2. To increase the nutritive value of the produce

    3. To enable them to grow and do photosynthesis in spaceships and space stations

    4. To increase their shelf life.

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only  (b) 3 and 4 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only* (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • Magnetic Isolation and Concentration Cryo-electron Microscopy (MagIC)

    Why in the news?

    Researchers from Rockefeller University introduced MagIC, a new method that allows cryo-EM to work with samples up to 100 times more dilute, making it easier to study rare or hard-to-purify molecules.

    About Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM):

    • Cryo-EM is a powerful microscope method used by scientists to see the 3D shapes of very small things like proteins, viruses, and cell parts.
    • In cryo-EM:
      • The sample is frozen very fast to keep it in its natural shape.
      • An electron beam is used instead of light to capture detailed images at extremely cold temperatures.
    • It helps in:
      • Understanding how diseases work
      • Designing new medicines
      • Studying cell processes
    • Problem: Cryo-EM usually needs a lot of the molecule to work well.
      • If the sample is too dilute (too weak), it’s hard to get good images.
    • Why MagIC helps: It solves this big problem by concentrating and organizing particles using magnetism and smart software, making cryo-EM work even for rare or tiny amounts of molecules.

    What is MagIC (Magnetic Isolation and Concentration cryo-EM)?

    • Overview: It is a new method developed by scientists in the U.S. to make it easier to study rare biological molecules under a special microscope called cryo-EM.
    • Sampling involved: Normally, cryo-EM needs the molecules in a sample to be very concentrated, which is hard when the molecules are rare or hard to collect.
    • MagIC solves this problem by using:
      • Tiny magnetic beads (50 nanometers wide) that stick to the molecules researchers want to study.
      • A magnet that pulls these beads together into one area.
    • This way, even when the solution has less than 0.0005 milligrams per milliliter of the molecules, scientists can still get useful images.

    Key Features of MagIC:

    • Magnetic Pulling: After molecules stick to the tiny magnetic beads, a magnet pulls them into clusters, making them easier to see.
    • Low Sample Requirement: Only 5 nanograms of sample per grid are needed. That’s a very tiny amount—much less than earlier methods.
    • Faster Imaging: The magnetic beads are easy to see, so scientists can quickly find areas with useful particles in the microscope.
    • Smart Software – DuSTER (Duplicated Selection to Exclude Rubbish):
      • It helps remove bad or blurry images and keep only the clear ones.
      • It picks each particle twice and only keeps it if the location matches both times.
    • MagIC works with samples that are 100 times more dilute than what cryo-EM could handle before.
    [UPSC 2023] ‘Aerial metagenomics’ best refers to which one of the following situations?

    Options: (a) Collecting DNA samples from air in a habitat at one go* (b) Understanding the genetic makeup of avian species of a habitat (c) Using air-borne devices to colect blood samples from moving animals (d) Sending drones to inaccessible areas to collect plant and animal samples from land surfaces and water bodies

     

  • KATRIN Experiment sets strongest Limit on Neutrino Mass

    Why in the News?

    The Karlsruhe Tritium Neutrino Experiment (KATRIN) in Germany has achieved a major breakthrough in the search to measure the mass of the neutrino.

    What are Neutrinos?

    • Neutrinos are tiny, electrically neutral subatomic particles with an extremely small mass.
    • They come in 3 types (or “flavours”): electron, muon, and tau neutrinos.
    • Neutrinos are produced in nuclear reactions, such as those in the Sun, nuclear reactors, and supernovae.
    • They rarely interact with matter, making them very difficult to detect.
    • Their ability to change from one flavour to another (called oscillation) proves they have mass.
    • Neutrinos challenge the Standard Model of physics, hinting at undiscovered particles or forces.

    About KATRIN Experiment:

    • What is it: The KATRIN experiment is based at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany and aims to measure the absolute mass of electron antineutrinos with unmatched precision.
    • Launch and Operation: It was inaugurated in 2018 and began data collection in 2019, with its latest results derived from 259 days of measurements.
    • Scientific Principle: KATRIN uses tritium beta decay, where tritium breaks into helium, an electron, and a neutrino, to study the energy spectrum of emitted electrons.
    • Focus Area: The experiment analyzes electrons near the energy endpoint, since they are most influenced by the neutrino mass.

    How KATRIN measures Neutrino mass?

    • KATRIN focuses on electrons that are emitted with energies close to the maximum limit (called the endpoint), which are most affected by the neutrino mass.
    • A retarding electric field filters out lower-energy electrons, allowing only the highest-energy ones to be measured precisely.
    • By analyzing millions of such decay events, KATRIN estimates the upper limit on the neutrino mass.

    India’s Achievements in Neutrino Observations:

    • Historical Detection: India was among the first countries to detect atmospheric neutrinos in 1965 at the Kolar Gold Fields (KGF), marking a pioneering achievement in neutrino physics.
    • INO Project: The India-Based Neutrino Observatory (INO) is under development in Tamil Nadu, set to become a premier underground research facility.
    • Flagship Detector: INO will house the Iron Calorimeter (ICAL), a 50,000-tonne magnetized detector, which will be the largest of its kind in the world.
    • Applications: INO will advance detector technologies, enable training in high-energy physics, and have potential applications in medical imaging and electronics.
    • Global Integration: India’s involvement in neutrino science positions it to contribute unique insights to global efforts, complementing projects like IceCube.
    [UPSC 2010] India-based Neutrino Observatory is included by the Planning Commission as a mega science project under the 11th five-Year Plan. In this context, consider the following statements:

    1. Neutrinos are chargeless elementary particles that travel close to the speed of light.

    2.Neutrinos are created in nuclear reactions of beta decay.

    3.Neutrinos have a negligible, but nonzero mass.

    4.Trillions of Neutrinos pass through human body every second.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 1,2 and 3 (c) 2,3 and 4 (d) 1,2,3 and 4 *

     

  • How extracting and producing nickel can be made more sustainable 

    Why in the News?

    A new study by the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials has introduced a new method to extract nickel using hydrogen plasma instead of carbon. This cleaner, carbon-free process is being seen as a major breakthrough.

    What is the new hydrogen plasma method? 

    • Hydrogen gas is converted into plasma using an electric arc furnace. This plasma reacts with nickel oxide to produce pure nickel and water, instead of carbon dioxide.
    • The method is particularly effective for laterite ores, which are abundant in tropical regions like Odisha’s Sukinda belt, making it economically viable for India’s low-grade nickel resources.

    How is it different from traditional methods?

    Aspect Traditional Method Hydrogen Plasma Method
    Process Type Multi-step: calcination, smelting, reduction, refining Single-step metallurgical process using hydrogen plasma
    Reducing Agent Carbon (produces CO₂ as a byproduct) Hydrogen plasma (produces water as a byproduct)
    Environmental Impact High energy use and CO₂ emissions Up to 84% lower CO₂ emissions and ~18% more energy-efficient

    What is the importance of nickel? 

    • Crucial for Clean Energy Technologies: Nickel is essential in manufacturing lithium-ion batteries, used in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage systems. Eg: High-nickel batteries like NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) offer higher energy density and longer life for EVs like Tesla or Tata Nexon EV.
    • Used in Stainless Steel Production: Over 60% of global nickel is used in making stainless steel, providing strength, corrosion resistance, and durability. Eg: Used in construction materials, kitchenware, medical instruments, and infrastructure.
    • Strategic Industrial Metal: Plays a key role in the aerospace, defence, and electronics industries due to its ability to withstand extreme temperatures. Eg: Used in jet engines, turbines, and superalloys.
    • Supports Green Infrastructure Goals: Nickel-based technologies support the transition to net-zero and green economy targets. Eg: Solar panels, wind turbines, and grid-scale battery storage use nickel-based components.
    • Economic and Strategic Resource for Countries: Nations with nickel reserves gain economic and geopolitical advantage, especially in the energy transition era. Eg: India’s reserves in Odisha (Sukinda region) can reduce import dependency and boost Atmanirbhar Bharatgoals.

    Where are India’s nickel reserves found?

    • Odisha – Sukinda Region: Major nickel laterite reserves are located in Sukinda valley, Jajpur district, Odisha. Eg: Found as nickeliferous limonite in chromite mine overburden with 0.4–0.9% nickel content.
    • Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh: Smaller deposits are also reported in parts of Jharkhand (e.g., Singhbhum) and Chhattisgarh, although less exploited.

    What are the steps taken by the Indian Government?

    • National Critical Mineral Mission: Launched in January 2025 with ₹16,300–34,300 crore outlay to enhance domestic exploration, mining, processing, and recycling of minerals like nickel, lithium, and cobalt.
    • Policy Reforms & Incentives: Amendments to the Mines and Minerals Act and the PLI scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell batteries promote private sector participation and domestic EV battery manufacturing.
    • Global Partnerships & Block Acquisition: India is securing overseas mineral assets via the Mineral Security Partnership and Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL), while also auctioning critical mineral blocks domestically.

    Way forward: 

    • Promote R&D and Industrial Scaling of Hydrogen Plasma Technology: India should invest in pilot projects and public-private partnerships to test and scale the hydrogen plasma method domestically, especially in regions like Odisha with abundant low-grade laterite nickel ores.
    • Strengthen Renewable Energy Integration in Mining Processes: To ensure true carbon neutrality, the electricity used in nickel extraction (especially in electric arc furnaces) must be sourced from renewables like solar, wind, or green hydrogen-based grids.

    Mains PYQ:

    [UPSC 2023] How do electric vehicles contribute to reducing carbon emissions and what are the key benefits they offer compared to traditional combustion engine vehicles?

    Linkage: Nickel is an important metal used in Electric Vehicles (EVs), which are seen as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuel-powered vehicles. However, the article highlight that while EVs reduce operational emissions, the manufacturing of their lithium-ion batteries, particularly the carbon-intensive extraction of nickel, creates hidden environmental costs.

  • Kashmir Merino: India’s First Gene-Edited Sheep

    Why in the News?

    Researchers at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) have successfully created India’s first gene-edited sheep—a Kashmir Merino breed.

    Kashmir Merino: India's First Gene-Edited Sheep

    About Kashmir Merino Sheep:

    • Overview: Kashmir Merino is a high-quality domestic sheep breed known for its fine wool and ability to thrive in cold climates.
    • Genetics: It was developed by crossbreeding exotic Merino rams with local sheep breeds in Jammu and Kashmir.
    • Characteristics: The breed produces soft, dense wool with high fibre quality, making it valuable for the textile industry.
    • Resilience: It is well-adapted to high-altitude Himalayan conditions, including extreme cold and low oxygen levels.
    • Significance: It plays a key role in regional livestock economies, contributing significantly to wool and mutton production in Jammu and Kashmir.

    Gene-Editing Breakthrough in Kashmir Merino:

    • Gene Targeted: Researchers used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to edit the myostatin gene, which normally inhibits muscle growth.
    • Impact: Disabling this gene led to a 30% increase in muscle mass, resulting in higher meat yield and improved economic returns for farmers.
    • Lab-to-Field Success: The edited embryo was developed in a laboratory and then successfully implanted into a surrogate mother, marking a full-cycle gene-editing achievement.
    • Biotech Significance: This success represents a major advancement in India’s livestock biotechnology, opening new paths for research in disease resistance, wool quality enhancement, and production of transgenic proteins.
    [UPSC 2017] What is the application of somatic cell nuclear transfer technology?

    Options: (a) Production of biolarvicides (b) Manufacture of biodegradable plastics (c) Reproductive cloning of animals* (d) Production of organisms free of diseases

     

  • NASA captures image of Mars’ Arsia Mons Volcano 

    Why in the News?

    NASA’s Mars Odyssey orbiter has captured a spectacular image of Arsia Mons, one of Mars’ largest volcanoes.

    mons

    About Arsia Mons Volcano:

    • Location: Arsia Mons is a massive shield volcano on Mars, located in the Tharsis region near the planet’s equator.
    • Volcanic Chain: It is part of the Tharsis Montes trio, which includes Pavonis Mons and Ascraeus Mons.
    • Size and Structure: The volcano rises about 20 km (12 miles) in height and spans 450 kilometres in diameter, making it one of the largest in the Solar System.
    • Summit Caldera: Arsia Mons has an enormous caldera, or summit crater, measuring 120 kilometres across, which is much wider than most Earth volcanoes.
    • Volcano Type: It is a shield volcano, characterised by gentle slopes formed through successive lava flows.
    • Surface Features: Signs of lava channels, landslides, and possible ancient glaciers have been observed on its flanks.
    • Cloud Activity: Known as the cloudiest volcano on Mars, Arsia Mons regularly develops water-ice clouds near its summit, especially at sunrise and during aphelion, when Mars is farthest from the Sun.

    Its Significance:

    • Recent Imaging: A new image released by NASA shows Arsia Mons piercing through morning haze, offering scientists a horizon-level view of Martian terrain.
    • Scientific Importance: Observations help researchers analyse Martian weather, seasonal climate patterns, and atmospheric behaviour.
    • Mission Relevance: Arsia Mons plays a key role in understanding Mars’ volcanic history, dust storm formation, and identifying future landing zones.
    • Exploration Support: Data from this region improve planetary weather models and assist in safe mission planning for upcoming robotic and human missions.

    Back2Basics: NASA’s Mars Odyssey Orbiter  

    • Launch: Mars Odyssey was launched in 2001, making it NASA’s longest-operating spacecraft at Mars.
    • Technology: The orbiter captured the Arsia Mons image using the THEMIS (Thermal Emission Imaging System) camera.
    • Capabilities: This instrument detects both visible and infrared light, allowing scientists to study surface temperatures, mineral compositions, and atmospheric properties.
    • Unique Technique: To photograph Arsia Mons against the Martian horizon, the orbiter rotated its camera 90 degrees, deviating from its usual ground-facing orientation.
    • Contributions: It continues to monitor climate changes, study volcanoes and dust storms, and assist with landing site selection.
    • Support Role: It also serves as a communication relay for other active Mars missions, enabling data transfer and navigation for landers and rovers.

     

    [UPSC 2016] Consider the following statements:

    The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO 1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission 2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA 3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit the Mars in its very first attempt

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

     

  • IISc develops Nanozyme to prevent Abnormal Blood Clotting

    Why in the News?

    Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have created an artificial metal-based nanozyme that can help prevent dangerous blood clotting, especially in conditions like pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) and COVID-19.

    What is Blood Clotting?

    • About: When we get a cut or injury, our body quickly stops the bleeding by forming a blood clot. This is done by special blood cells called platelets that stick together and seal the wound.
    • Control mechanism: This natural process is called blood clotting or haemostasis and is controlled by certain chemicals in our body like collagen and thrombin.
    • Post covid issues: But in some illnesses like pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) or COVID-19, the body sends too many signals to make clots, even when there is no injury.
    • Oxidative Stress: This creates a problem called oxidative stress, where harmful molecules called Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) build up in the blood. These ROS molecules over-activate the platelets, causing them to make too many clots inside blood vessels.
    • Hazards: This can block blood flow, leading to serious health issues like heart attacks, strokes, or lung problems. This condition is called thrombosis, and it can be life-threatening.

    Vanadium-Based Nanozyme and Its Features:

    • Purpose and Design: Scientists at IISc developed vanadium-based nanozymes to mimic natural antioxidant enzymes that reduce ROS levels.
    • How they work: The nanozymes control oxidative stress by copying glutathione peroxidase, an enzyme that removes ROS and protects platelets.
    • Optimal Structure: Spherical-shaped vanadium pentoxide (V₂O₅) nanozymes were found to be the most effective.
    • Test Results in Mice: These nanozymes reduced blood clots and improved survival in PTE-affected mice with no toxicity signs over five days.
    • Next Steps: Scientists plan to test the nanozyme in ischemic stroke and are optimistic about human clinical trials after promising lab results with human platelets.
    [UPSC 2015] With reference to the use of nano-technology in health sector, consider the following statements:

    1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology.

    2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only  (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2* (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • ‘Bharat Gen’ AI-based multimodal LLM for Indian languages launched

    Why in the News?

    Union Minister of State for Science & Technology has launched ‘Bharat Gen’, India’s first indigenously developed AI-based Large Language Model (LLM) tailored for Indian languages.

    About Bharat Gen:

    • What is it: Bharat Gen is India’s first homegrown AI-based multimodal large language model (LLM) supporting 22 Indian languages.
    • Developed By: Created under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS) and implemented by the TIH Foundation for IoT and IoE at IIT Bombay.
    • Key Features:
      • Understands text, speech, and image inputs.
      • Works across India’s diverse languages and cultures.
      • Designed to be ethical, inclusive, and culturally rooted.
    • Support and Collaboration: Backed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) and developed in collaboration with top academic and AI institutions.
    • Bharat Data Sagar: A national effort to collect language data for lesser-known Indian languages to train future AI tools.
    • Real-World Use: In places like Udhampur, an AI doctor powered by Bharat Gen is helping patients in their native language.

    What are Large Language Models (LLMs)?

    • Large Language Models (LLMs) are advanced AI systems trained on massive amounts of text data to understand and generate human-like language. They use deep learning and the Transformer architecture to predict and produce text based on user prompts.

      Features:

      • Trained on huge datasets (process data through mathematical optimization to minimise prediction errors.)
      • Contain billions of parameters
      • Can answer questions, summarize, translate, write code, and generate content

      Examples:

      • GPT-4
      • LLaMA
      • Claude

      Limitations:

      • May generate inaccurate information
      • Can reflect biases in data
      • Lack true human understanding
    [UPSC 2020] With the present state of development, Artificial Intelligence can effectively do which of the following?(1) Bring down electricity consumption in industrial units (2) Create meaningful short stories and songs (3) Disease diagnosis (4) Text-to-Speech Conversion (5) Wireless transmission of electrical energy Select the correct answer using the code given below:Options: (a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only (b) 1, 3 and 4 only* (c) 2, 4 and 5 only (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5