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GS Paper: GS3

  • [pib] Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant

    Why in the News?

    Scientists at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, in collaboration with other researchers have developed the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant.

    What is the Combination Therapeutic Clotting Implant?

    • It is a hybrid implant made of metal-based nano-medicine combined with patient-derived blood clotting components.
    • It is designed to reduce localized tumor recurrence after surgery.
    • It uses nanotechnology and autologous fibrin (derived from the patient’s own blood) to enhance post-surgical cancer treatment by providing localized therapy and promoting healing in the tumor bed.

    How does It Work?

    • The implant is created using Nano-Micro-Sera (NMS), which consists of drug and metal-based nanomedicine stabilized by the patient’s own serum protein corona.
    • The hybrid implant is reinforced into autologous fibrin, which quickly bonds with damaged tissue in the tumor bed after surgery.
    • Once the surgical site is closed, the implant delivers localized chemo-phototherapy, triggering immunogenic cell death (ICD).
    • This process activates dendritic cells and T-cells, which boosts the body’s immune response and prevents the recurrence of tumors.

    Significance of the Implant

    • The implant offers an affordable and effective solution for localized post-surgical cancer management, especially for marginalized patients.
    • By using the patient’s own serum proteins and fibrin, the implant ensures personalized treatment, reducing the risk of systemic toxicity.
    • The implant’s design is resource-efficient, making it accessible for bedside fabrication with simple equipment, ensuring wider availability.
    • It has demonstrated superior outcomes in suppressing recurrent breast tumors, and its use could prevent tumor recurrence and reducing the chances of metastasis.

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to the use of nanotechnology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology.

    2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) Both 1 and 2

    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • [pib] ‘Humsafar Policy’ for Wayside Amenities along the National Highways

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has launched the ‘Humsafar Policy’ in New Delhi to improve travel convenience on National Highways and boost the development of Wayside Amenities.

    About the ‘Humsafar Policy’

    • The Humsafar Policy is an initiative launched by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways to enhance the convenience and experience of travelers on National Highways (NHs).
    • It focuses on developing Wayside Amenities along highways to provide a range of facilities for highway users, ensuring smooth, safe, and comfortable journeys.
    • The policy also emphasizes environmental sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices like water conservation, solar energy, and waste recycling.

    Features of the Humsafar Policy

    • Wayside Amenities: Includes food courts, fuel stations, EV charging stations, parking, toilets, ATMs, and pharmacies.
    • Standardized Facilities: Ensures well-maintained and hygienic services for commuters.
    • Visibility for Service Providers: Featured on the ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app, with signage space and renewal fee waivers for high-rated providers.
    • Monitoring & Inspection: Regular third-party checks to maintain service quality, with alerts for low-rated facilities.
    • Green Focus: Encourages solar energy, water conservation, and waste recycling.

    Significance

    • Better User Experience: Enhances travel with high-quality facilities.
    • Economic Impact: Creates jobs and supports local communities.
    • Standardization: Ensures consistent quality and accountability.
    • Technological Integration: The ‘Rajmarg Yatra’ app gives real-time facility info and allows feedback from users.

  • Hanle Dark Sky Reserve Star Party observed in Ladakh

    Why in the News?

    Expert astro-photographers and astronomers have gathered at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve from for the second Star Party.

    Star Party and Its Details

    • The Star Party at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is a gathering of amateur astronomers and astro-photographers who travel to Hanle to observe and capture celestial phenomena.
    • It was hosted by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) from and attended by over 45 astronomy enthusiasts from across India.
    • Participants brought their own telescopes and cameras to capture unique celestial events, including faint galaxies, the Zodiacal Light, and the rare sight of Venus casting a shadow.

    About Hanle Dark Sky Reserve (HDSR)

    • The HDSR is a designated area in Changthang region of eastern Ladakh created to control man-made light pollution and protect the naturally dark night skies.
    • It spans approximately 1,073 square kilometers and is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
    • Established to promote astronomy and astrophotography, it offers some of the darkest skies in India, ideal for astronomical research.
    • Hanley is also the home to second-highest optical telescope in the world, established in 2001 by IIA.

    Special Features of HDSR and the Surrounding Region

    • High Altitude: Hanle is situated at a high altitude, providing clearer skies with minimal atmospheric interference.
    • Minimal Light Pollution: The region has low light pollution, which makes it perfect for observing faint celestial objects.
    • Dry Climate: The dry weather in the region contributes to excellent visibility, reducing the impact of humidity on astronomical observations.

    Significance of HDSR

    • Astrophotography and Research: The dark skies allow for detailed observation of celestial phenomena and astrophotography, attracting enthusiasts and researchers.
    • Astro-Tourism: The reserve fosters astro-tourism, boosting the local economy by creating jobs for guides and supporting infrastructure.
    • Preservation of Night Skies: It plays a crucial role in preserving the natural darkness of the sky, curbing light pollution in the region.
    • International Attention: The reserve has attracted amateur and professional astronomers from across India and beyond, making it a hub for astronomical events.
    PYQ:

    [2018] Consider the following phenomena:

    1. Light is affected by gravity.
    2. The Universe is constantly expanding.
    3. Matter warps its surrounding space-time.

    Which of the above is/are the prediction/predictions of Albert Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity, often discussed in media?

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

  • How high-performance buildings are the next step towards a sustainable future?

    Why in the News?

    Due to rapid urbanization, India is facing the challenge of exceeding global energy efficiency and carbon benchmarks. High-performance buildings (HPBs) offer resilient, adaptive, and self-sufficient designs, promoting healthier indoor environments and better air quality.

    What are High-Performance Buildings (HPBs)?

    • These are structures designed to achieve peak levels of energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort.
    • They go beyond standard building practices by integrating advanced technologies and smart design strategies to minimize environmental impact, optimize resource use, and improve overall performance.
      • For example, Unnati (Greater Noida) and Indira Paryavaran Bhawan (New Delhi) showcase smart designs like sun-optimized facades and advanced HVAC systems, reducing energy use.

    Key features of HPBs include:

    • Energy Efficiency: HPBs use cutting-edge technologies like energy-efficient HVAC systems, smart lighting controls, and advanced insulation to reduce energy consumption.
    • Water Conservation: Techniques like greywater recycling and rainwater harvesting help HPBs minimize water usage.
    • Sustainable Materials: HPBs use eco-friendly, durable materials to reduce their carbon footprint and increase building longevity.
    • Site-Specific Design: HPBs leverage natural lighting, ventilation, and terrain-specific water management to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce energy demand.
    • Building Management Systems (BMS): HPBs employ BMS to monitor real-time performance metrics such as energy usage, water consumption, and indoor air quality, ensuring continuous optimization of resources.

    How can HPBs help Indian cities?

    • Resource Efficiency: HPBs help reduce energy consumption and promote water conservation, addressing India’s resource scarcity and fluctuating energy markets.
    • Urban Resilience: By being energy-efficient and self-sufficient, HPBs can help cities adapt to rising temperatures and urbanization pressures.
    • Healthier Environments: HPBs enhance indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and occupant well-being through intelligent systems like air filtration, natural lighting, and smart temperature control.
    • The strain on Infrastructure: HPBs can relieve pressure on public infrastructure by minimizing resource usage, making them crucial for fast-growing cities.
    • Sustainable Growth: HPBs are key to driving India’s transition to a low-carbon economy, supporting sustainable urbanization, and enhancing property value through long-term cost savings.

    Way Forward: 

    • Scaling Adoption of HPBs: Promote widespread implementation of HPBs through government incentives, regulations, and public-private partnerships, aligning with SDG Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) to foster inclusive, safe, and resilient urban spaces.
    • Innovation and Capacity Building: Encourage innovation in building technologies and workforce training to develop HPBs, contributing to SDG Goal 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) by ensuring energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in cities.

  • On the need for a different framework for passive Mutual Funds

    Why in the News?

    On September 30, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) launched the liberalized Mutual Funds Lite (MF Lite) framework specifically for passively managed schemes.

    What is a Passive Mutual Fund? 

    • A Passive Mutual Fund is a type of investment fund that follows a market index, like Nifty50, trying to match its performance.
    • They can be easily tracked, whereas, Active Mutual Funds need expert fund managers to actively monitor them and make investments in securities of their choice accordingly.
    • Since there’s no need for constant research, analysis, or active trading the costs are lower.

    Key highlights of the liberalized Mutual Funds Lite (MF Lite) framework:

    • Separate Framework for Passive Funds: It is tailored for passively managed schemes, which are less risky and require minimal active management.
    • Relaxed Entry Requirements: Lowered net worth requirement (₹35 crore), simplified criteria for sponsor eligibility (profitability, track record).
    • Encouraging New Players: It provides easier entry for new AMCs (Asset management companies) and market players in the passive fund segment.
    • Governance Flexibility: It has reduced oversight for trustees; operational responsibilities shifted to AMC boards, focusing on fees, expenses, and tracking error.
    • Cost Efficiency Focus: It emphasizes on lowering Total Expense Ratio (TER) and minimizing tracking error for better returns.
    • Simplified Disclosures: The Scheme Information Documents (SID) are simplified to focus on key metrics like benchmark index, TER, and tracking error.
    • Risk Management: Audit committees of AMCs can handle risk management duties due to the lower risk profile of passive funds.

    Why a Separate Framework for MF Lite is Needed?

    • Lower Risk Profile: Passively managed funds are generally less risky because they track established benchmarks like BSE Sensex or Nifty50, reducing the need for active decision-making.
    • Minimal Asset Manager Discretion: Unlike actively managed funds, asset managers of passive funds have limited discretion in asset allocation and investment objectives. They simply mirror the performance of the benchmark index.
    • Inapplicability of Existing Regulations: The current framework is designed primarily for actively managed funds, which involve more risks and require more oversight. It is less suitable for passive funds, which operate with predefined, transparent rules.
    • Cost-Effective Market Entry: To encourage new players and make the passive fund industry more competitive, SEBI introduced relaxed regulations regarding eligibility, net worth, and profitability.

    What about risks and disclosures? 

    • Success depends on Total Expense Ratio (TER) and tracking error. Lower costs and minimal deviation from the benchmark are crucial for performance.
    • Scheme Information Documents (SID) focus on key metrics like the benchmark name, TER, and tracking error, leaving out complex strategies.
    • Risk management responsibilities are streamlined, allowing the audit committee of the AMC to handle oversight, reflecting the lower risks of passive funds.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Investor Education: Develop targeted educational initiatives to inform retail investors about the benefits, risks, and operational aspects of passive mutual funds, fostering informed investment decisions.
    • Ongoing Regulatory Evaluation: Establish a framework for periodic assessment and adaptation of the MF Lite regulations to ensure they remain effective and relevant, promoting competition while safeguarding investor interests.

  • Farmers to receive aid under Rythu Bharosa

    Why in the News?

    After the completion of the loan waiver, the Telangana government will provide Rythu Bharosa assistance to support farmers further.

    About the Rythu Bharosa Scheme:

    Details
    Scheme Name Rythu Bharosa Scheme (Farmer’s Investment Support Scheme – FISS)
    Launch Year 2018-19 Kharif season (Telangana Govt’s Navratna Scheme)
    Objective To support the initial investment needs of farmers by providing financial aid for agriculture and horticulture crops.
    Benefits ₹5,000 per acre per season as a grant for input purchases, with no cap on the number of acres owned by farmers.
    Eligibility
    • Farmers must be residents of Telangana.
    • Must own agricultural land.
    • Small and marginal farmers are eligible.
    • Farmers cultivating land with Record of Forest Rights (ROFR) document (mainly from Scheduled Tribe communities).
    Ineligible Farmers
    • Commercial farmers.
    • Farmers working on a rental contract or tenant farmers.

    Significance of the move

    • Financial Relief for Farmers: By waiving loans of up to ₹2 lakh per farmer, the scheme provides significant financial relief, helping farmers manage their debt and invest in future agricultural activities.
    • Boost to Agricultural Sector: The waiver will enable farmers to focus on improving productivity and crop yields without the burden of debt, potentially boosting the state’s agricultural output.
    • Reduction in Farmer Distress: This move will alleviate distress among farmers, especially those affected by unpredictable weather and fluctuating crop prices, reducing the risk of farm-related suicides and financial instability.

    PYQ:

    [2020] Under the Kisan Credit Card scheme, short-term credit support is given to farmers for which of the following purposes?

    1. Working capital for maintenance of farm assets
    2. Purchase of combine harvesters, tractors and mini trucks
    3. Consumption requirements of farm households
    4. Post-harvest expenses
    5. Construction of family house and setting up of village cold storage facility

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 5 only
    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only
    (c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
    (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

  • CERC steps in to tackle sudden Surges in Power Demand

    Why in the News?

    India’s power regulator, the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC), has appointed a Single Member Bench to assess the challenges of a sudden surge in power demand.

    Projected Power Demand for October 2024

    • India’s projected peak power demand for October 2024 is 230 Gigawatts (GW).
    • After factoring in Inter-State Transmission System (ISTS) losses, the demand is expected to rise to 232.2 GW.
    • To meet this demand, an additional 12.60 GW of generation resources is required.

    Concerns over Power System Operation:

    • The steep rise in electricity demand, without enough generation sources, could pose a risk to power system operations.
    • The Regional Load Despatch Centres (RLDCs) and State Load Despatch Centres (SLDCs) are responsible for conducting operational planning to manage this surge, especially due to seasonal variations.

     

    About Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC):

    Details
    Establishment It was constituted on July 24, 1998, under the Electricity Regulatory Commissions Act, 1998, and later brought under the Electricity Act, 2003.
    Type Statutory body with quasi-judicial status under Section 76 of the Electricity Act, 2003.
    Ministry Functions under the Ministry of Power, Government of India.
    Primary Functions – Regulates tariffs of power generation companies (owned/controlled by the Government of India).
    – Regulates interstate transmission tariffs.
    – Issues licenses for interstate transmission and trading.
    Key Role in Tariff Evolution – Introduced a Two-Part Tariff in 1992.
    – Introduced Availability Based Tariff (ABT) in 2000 to improve grid stability.
    Advisory Role – Contributes to National Electricity Policy and Tariff Policy.
    – Promotes competition, efficiency, and investment in the electricity sector.
    Licensing – Issues licenses for electricity transmission and interstate trading.
    Grid Operation Standards Enforces standards under the Indian Electricity Grid Code (IEGC) to improve grid stability and power quality.
    Dispute Resolution Adjudicates disputes involving power generation companies and transmission licensees.
    Collaboration Signed a MoU with the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in 2009 for enhancing power market regulation and grid reliability.
    First Chairman Mr. S.L. Rao (1998–2001).

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Which one of the following is the purpose of ‘UDAY’, a scheme of the Government?

    (a) Providing technical and financial assistance to start-up entrepreneurs in the field of renewable sources of energy

    (b) Providing electricity to every household in the country by 2018

    (c) Replacing the coal-based power plants with natural gas, nuclear, solar, wind and tidal power plants over a period of time

    (d) Providing for financial turnaround and revival of power distribution companies

  • Why is salt pan land being used for homes?

    Why in the News?

    The Maharashtra government allocated 255.9 acres of salt pan land across three parcels in Mumbai’s eastern suburbs for rental housing under the Dharavi Redevelopment Project. 

    What is Salt pans?

    • Salt pans are low-lying coastal areas used for salt cultivation, acting as natural sponges that absorb rainwater and support diverse ecosystems while mitigating flooding.

    What is the Maharashtra government doing to relocate people?

    • Allocation of Land for Housing: The Maharashtra government has issued a Government Resolution (GR) allocating 255.9 acres of salt pan land for the construction of rental housing as part of the Dharavi Redevelopment Project. This land is to be used for slum rehabilitation and affordable housing for economically weaker sections.
    • Lease Agreement: The land parcels will be leased to the Maharashtra government for 99 years, with the objective of providing housing for residents displaced from Dharavi.
    • Involvement of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV): The Dharavi Redevelopment Project Private Limited (DRPPL), in which an Adani Group entity holds 80% stake and the State government has a 20% stake, is responsible for the construction and resettlement of laborers working on the land.
    • Concessional Rate for Land: The land is being provided at a concessional rate of 25% of the prevailing market rate, making it more accessible for development.

    Why is the move controversial?

    • Environmental Concerns: Urban planners and environmentalists have raised concerns about the lack of an impact assessment study before developing large parcels of salt pan land.
    • Risk of Ghetto Formation: Critics argue that relocating residents to different parts of the city, rather than in-situ rehabilitation (keeping them in their original areas), could lead to the formation of ghettos and further social segregation.

    Are salt pan lands ecologically important?

    • Ecological Role: Salt pan lands are vital as salt marshlands that serve as holding ponds, absorbing rainwater and acting as natural sponges, thereby helping to mitigate flooding.
    • Biodiversity: These areas support diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the ecological balance of coastal regions.
    • Natural Defense: The salt pan lands provide a coastal area’s natural defense against flooding and other environmental hazards, highlighting their importance in maintaining regional ecological health.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrate Environmental Assessments with Development Planning: The Maharashtra government should implement a framework that integrates environmental impact assessments into the planning process for the Dharavi Redevelopment Project.
    • Adopt a Community-Centric Approach to Resettlement: The government should engage with affected communities to explore in-situ rehabilitation options and gather input on their housing needs.

  • How are tanks armouring Ladakh sector?

    Why in the News?

    The Ukraine war has highlighted the versatility of battle tanks, demonstrating that armor remains crucial on modern battlefields, alongside long-range firepower.

    What are the difficulties in Ladakh due to high terrain and altitude? 

    • High Altitude Challenges: At altitudes of 13,000-15,000 feet, oxygen levels are low, causing rarefied air, which affects the performance of engines and machines, including tanks. Temperatures can dip to as low as -40 degrees Celsius.
    • Logistics and Transportation: Transporting tanks and heavy machinery to these high-altitude regions is a Herculean task due to the terrain. Once deployed, they are kept operational throughout, with maintenance facilities set up in forward areas like Nyoma and Daulat Beg Oldi.

    Threat from China: 

    • Chinese Deployment: The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has enhanced its firepower and mechanised units along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This includes the deployment of the ZTQ 15 (Type 15) light tanks and Type 96A second-generation tanks.
    • Modernisation and Mobilisation: China has also introduced modern wheeled Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and assault vehicles such as the CSK series to the region, indicating a significant military upgrade along the LAC.
    • Tactical Proximity: During the 2020 stand-off, Chinese and Indian tanks came within 100 metres of each other, demonstrating the heightened tensions and the tactical threats in Eastern Ladakh.

    What are the Indian Army’s future plans to fortify the border areas?

    • Indigenous Development: The Indian Army is developing the Zorawar light tank, specifically designed for high-altitude warfare.
    • T-90 and BMP Upgrades: India is enhancing the capabilities of existing T-90 tanks and BMP-2 armoured carriers
    • Long-term Projects: Plans are underway for Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV) and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICV) to replace current tanks and BMPs, with induction expected by 2030.
    • Procurement Plans: The Army is also evaluating the U.S. Stryker infantry combat vehicle and has initiated the process to procure 100 more K9 Vajra Howitzers to bolster long-range firepower.
    • Enhancing Infrastructure: Since 2012, India has significantly improved its infrastructure along the LAC, enabling long-term deployment of troops, tanks, and artillery in the region.

    Conclusion: The government should continue expanding logistical infrastructure along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), improving transportation, maintenance facilities, and supply chains to support long-term troop and equipment deployment in challenging terrain.

  • EnviStats India 2024

    Why in the News?

    • The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has released the “EnviStats India 2024: Environment Accounts” Report.

    What is the EnviStats India 2024 Report?

    • The EnviStats India 2024 Report, released by the MoSPI, is the 7th consecutive publication.
    • It compiles environmental-economic accounts based on the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA) Framework.
    • This framework provides a global standard for integrating environmental data with economic statistics, offering insights into the country’s natural resources, ecosystems, and environmental sustainability efforts.

    Key Highlights:

    Details
    Protected Areas (SDG 13 & SDG 15) – 72% increase in the number of Protected Areas (2000-2023)
    – 16% increase in the area of Protected Areas, reflecting biodiversity conservation efforts.
    Mangrove Cover (SDG 13 & SDG 15) – 8% increase in mangrove cover (2013-2021), highlighting positive growth in coastal ecosystem protection.
    Ocean Accounts (SDG 14: Life below Water) – Introduced for the first time, covering the extent and condition of ocean ecosystems.
    Energy Use & Physical Asset Accounts (SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy & SDG 13: Climate Action) – Includes Physical Asset Accounts and Physical Supply and Use Tables for Energy, aligned with SEEA-Energy Framework, and data from ministries like Coal and Petroleum.
    Soil Nutrient Index (SDG 2: Zero Hunger) – Updated data on Soil Nutrient Index based on the Soil Health Card 2023-24, reflecting soil health and agricultural sustainability.
    Biodiversity & Species Richness (SDG 15: Life on Land) – Data on faunal and floral diversity, including endangered species like Leopards and Snow leopards, connecting to biodiversity conservation.

    Policy Recommendations  

    The EnviStats India 2024 Report suggests several policy directions based on its findings:

    • Biodiversity Protection: Strengthen community-led conservation and expand protection of critical ecosystems.
    • Ocean Ecosystem Management: Use Ocean Accounts for sustainable marine resource management and pollution control.
    • Soil Health: Encourage sustainable farming practices and better soil management, leveraging Soil Health Cards for improved productivity.
    • Integrated Planning: Focus on species conservation, habitat restoration, and genetic conservation through data-driven planning.