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  • The lapses in the Disaster Management Bill

    Why in the News?

    The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, raises serious concerns. Instead of addressing the shortcomings of the Disaster Management Act (DMA), 2005, the Bill reduces opportunities for participation, accountability, and efficient governance.

    What are the lapses in the recent bill?

    • Top-Down Terminology: The Bill employs terms like “monitor” and “guidelines,” which suggest a top-down approach, rather than fostering community engagement through terms like “supervision” and “direction.”
      • This undermines trust between authorities and local communities, which are crucial in disaster response.
    • Neglect of Local Roles: While the Bill defines critical concepts such as ‘hazard’, ‘resilience’, and ‘vulnerability’, it fails to recognise the essential roles of local communities, panchayats, and NGOs in disaster management.
    • Lack of Intersectional Consideration: The Bill does not address intersectional discrimination affecting vulnerable groups like women, disabled individuals, lower castes, and LGBTQIA communities. Ignoring these factors limits the Bill’s inclusivity and effectiveness.
    • Absence of Accountability Mechanisms: The omission of performance evaluations for district authorities raises concerns about accountability. Without mechanisms to assess preparedness and response effectiveness, there is a risk of shifting blame onto individual philanthropic efforts during disasters.
    • Exclusion of Law and Order Issues: By stating that ‘man-made causes’ do not include law and order matters, the Bill complicates the role of police in disaster management while still involving them in executive committees.
    • Removal of Relief Standards: Key provisions regarding minimum standards of relief for disaster victims have been omitted from the Bill. This includes special provisions for vulnerable populations such as widows and orphans, which diminishes the support system for those affected by disasters.
    • Centralisation of Power: The Bill centralises decision-making by transferring responsibilities from local executive committees to national authorities, potentially leading to inefficiencies and delays in disaster response.
    • Neglect of Animal Welfare: The Bill does not address the impact of disasters on animals or include provisions for their welfare, which is a significant oversight given the scale of animal casualties during disasters.
    • Urban Disaster Management Authority (UDMA): The rationale behind establishing a separate UDMA is unclear, raising questions about its effectiveness given existing municipal structures that may not adequately address urban flooding issues caused by poor planning.

    What are the lessons learnt from a spectrum of areas?

    • Community Engagement: Successful disaster responses have historically relied on local knowledge and community action.
      • For example, in Cyclone Aila (2009, Sundarbans): Local villagers and fisherfolk initiated rescue operations well before official disaster response teams could arrive, saving countless lives.
    • Intersectionality Matters: Acknowledging diverse vulnerabilities ensures that disaster management strategies are comprehensive and equitable.
      • For example, Kerala Floods (2018): Specific interventions for women and children in relief camps improved health and hygiene outcomes, showcasing the value of targeted measures.
    • Accountability is Crucial: Clear accountability mechanisms are necessary to ensure that authorities fulfil their responsibilities effectively.
      • For example, in Uttarakhand Flash Floods (2013): Lack of timely action by district authorities and poor preparedness exacerbated the disaster’s impact, underscoring the need for performance evaluations.

    Can Regional collaboration work out?

    Regional collaboration could significantly enhance disaster management efforts, particularly in South Asia where cross-border challenges are prevalent:

    • Shared Resources and Knowledge: Collaborative frameworks among countries like SAARC, BIMSTEC, and BRICS could facilitate resource sharing and knowledge exchange during disasters.
    • Joint Preparedness Plans: Developing regional action plans based on shared vulnerabilities can strengthen collective responses to disasters.
    • Addressing Zoonotic Diseases: Given the increasing threat of zoonotic diseases, a coordinated regional approach could improve public health responses during disasters.

    What is the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction?

    • The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) is a comprehensive international agreement aimed at reducing disaster risks and enhancing resilience globally.
    • It was adopted by UN member states during the Third UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai, Japan, from March 14 to 18, 2015.
    • India is a signatory to the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030).

    Way forward: 

    • Strengthen Community Participation and Inclusivity: Amend the Bill to explicitly involve local communities, panchayats, and NGOs in disaster management.
    • Promote Accountability and Regional Cooperation: Introduce performance evaluations for district authorities to ensure preparedness and effective disaster responses.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Describe various measures taken in India for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) before and after signing ‘Sendai Framework for DRR (2015-2030)’. How is this framework different from ‘Hyogo Framework for Action, 2005’? (UPSC IAS/2018)

  • What is Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) system?

    Why in the News?

    • The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) is moving toward large-scale use of Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) for National Highway projects.
      • AIMC will provide real-time data at each stage of road construction, which will be sent directly to stakeholders, including MoRTH.

    About Automated & Intelligent Machine-aided Construction (AIMC) System

    Details
    What is it?
    • A technology-driven approach for road and infrastructure projects, employing advanced machinery (GPS, sensors, real-time data tools) to automate and monitor construction tasks.
    • Integrates machine automation, real-time data reporting, and precision engineering to enhance quality and speed of highway construction.
    • In India, explored by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) to reduce project delays and ensure consistent construction quality.
    Features of the System
    • GPS-Aided Equipment: Motor graders, intelligent compactors, and stringless pavers use GPS/digital designs for precise alignment and compaction.
    • Automated Surveys: Drones or sensor-fitted machinery capture topographical data, enabling continuous verification of design parameters.
    • Real-Time Documentation: Every stage (embankment, subgrade, sub-base, paving) is monitored and instantly shared with stakeholders.
    • Integrated Software Platforms: Centralized software creates a digital twin of the site for analytics and alerts.
    • Adaptive Workflows: Machines can operate 24/7, guided by digital models and real-time data.
    • Precision & Safety Controls: AI-driven predictive maintenance and automated tasks reduce worker risk.
    Significance of the System
    • Faster Project Completion: Real-time monitoring cuts down manual checks and paperwork, expediting construction.
    • Improved Quality & Precision: Sensor-based feedback loops align construction closely with design specifications.
    • Real-Time Data Sharing: Construction progress and quality metrics are instantly communicated, enabling immediate corrective actions.
    • Reduced Human Error: Automated machinery limits inconsistencies from manual oversight.
    • Better Accountability: Detailed digital records promote transparency and performance tracking.
    • Cost-Efficiency: Minimizes delays and rework, lowering overall project expenses.

  • Species: Lion-Tailed Macaque

    Why in the News?

    A new study highlights that increased food provisioning and habituation to human presence endanger the lion-tailed macaque, a endangered species found only in the Western Ghats of India. Roads crossing the macaque habitats in eight key locations—Anamalai Hills, Nelliyampathy, Nilambur Ghats, Sholayar, Gavi, Sabarimala, Vallimalai Hills, and Agumbe—have facilitated frequent human-animal interaction. 

    Note: The mention of this species as a ‘critically endangered’ is a metaphor used in the newspaper. It does not represent its original IUCN Red List status.

    About Lion-tailed macaque

    Details
    • Scientific Name: Macaca silenus
    • Also known as: Lion-tailed macaque, Wanderoo, Bearded Monkey
    • Has black fur with a distinctive gray or silver mane around the face (in both sexes), often referred to as the “beard ape.”
    • Threats: Habitat loss, hunting, and wood harvesting
    • Significance: Indicator of rainforest health and an umbrella species for conserving other wildlife in its region.
    Habitat
    • Endemic to the Western Ghats in India (states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu). 
    • Primarily tropical evergreen rainforests, but they are also found in monsoon forests.
    Behavioral Features
    • Shy and Avoidant: Unlike other macaques, they tend to avoid humans when possible.
    • Arboreal and Diurnal: Spend most of their time in trees and are active during daylight.
    • Communication: Possess up to 17 vocalizations; males define territory boundaries through calls. 
    • Diet: Primarily frugivorous, but also consume leaves, stems, flowers, buds, fungi, and occasionally small animals.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN: Endangered
    • CITES: Appendix I
    • Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (India): Schedule I

    (Estimated 4,200 individuals remaining)

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] In which of the following States is lion-tailed macaque found in its natural habitat?

    1. Tamil Nadu

    2. Kerala

    3. Karnataka

    4. Andhra Pradesh

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Mitochondrial Genome (mtDNA)

    Why in the News?

    Recent research indicates that age-related losses in our cell’s mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)—specifically, deletion mutations—could be a major driver of aging. These mutations, once they accumulate, reduce the mitochondrion’s ability to produce energy (ATP), causing cell and tissue dysfunction.

    Mitochondrial Genome (mtDNA)

    What are Mitochondria?

    • Mitochondria generate most of the cell’s energy (hence called the Powerhouse) in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
    • They originated from free-living bacteria absorbed by ancient single-celled organisms, retaining a fraction of their own DNA (mtDNA).
    • Unlike nuclear DNA, mitochondria have their own circular DNA, though limited in size.
    • Humans inherit mitochondria exclusively from the mother’s egg; sperm-contributed mitochondria are generally not passed on.
    • They have a double membrane: a relatively permeable outer membrane and a highly folded inner membrane (cristae) that maximizes surface area for energy production.
      • Their inner compartment, the mitochondrial matrix, houses mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), ribosomes, and enzymes for the Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle) and fatty acid β-oxidation.
    • Mitochondria help regulate intracellular calcium levels, which is crucial for various signalling pathways.
    • They play a role in apoptosis (programmed cell death) by releasing factors such as cytochrome c when the cell is under severe stress.

    Functions of DNA, mRNA, and the gene:

    • DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid):
      • Blueprint of Life: Houses genetic instructions in the form of a sequence of bases (A, T, G, C).
      • Chromosomal Structure: In the nucleus, it is organized into 23 pairs of chromosomes in humans, each carrying numerous genes.
      • Base-Pairing: Two DNA strands form a double helix via base-pair bonding (A-T, G-C).
    • Gene:
      • Functional Unit of DNA: A stretch of DNA containing instructions (a few thousand base-pairs) for making proteins or functional RNA.
      • Expression: When active, a gene is ‘read’ and transcribed into mRNA.
    • mRNA (Messenger RNA):
      • Intermediate Molecule: Carries the gene’s instructions from the DNA (in the nucleus) to the cytoplasm.
      • Protein Synthesis: Ribosomes read mRNA sequences, translating them into specific proteins.

    Functions of the Mitochondrial Genome (mtDNA):

    • Encodes Key Mitochondrial Proteins:
      • The mtDNA has 13 protein-coding genes crucial for mitochondrial energy production (ATP synthesis).
      • It also encodes 24 non-coding genes (like rRNAs and tRNAs), essential for mitochondrial protein synthesis.
    • Energy Production:
      • mtDNA-encoded proteins form part of the electron transport chain, where most ATP is produced.
    • Distinct Inheritance Pattern:
      • Inherited exclusively from the mother.
      • Each cell contains multiple mitochondria, each with multiple copies of mtDNA.
    • Implication in Aging and Disease:
      • Age-related mutations (deletions, chimeric genes) in mtDNA can lead to functional decline in tissues like muscle and brain.
      • Loss of intact mtDNA reduces ATP generation, contributing to cellular and tissue ageing.

    PYQ:

    [2021] In the context of hereditary diseases, consider the following statements:

    1. Passing on mitochondrial diseases from parent to child can be prevented by mitochondria replacement therapy either before or after in vitro fertilization of the egg.
    2. A child inherits mitochondrial diseases entirely from mother and not from father.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

  • Looking at 2025, The Economy: Some positives, some concerns

    Why in the News?

    The Finance Minister describes the slowdown in Q2 growth as a “temporary blip,” while the RBI has revised its GDP growth forecast for 2024-25 downward, from 7.2% to 6.6%.

    Why RBI has revised its GDP growth forecast for 2024-2025 downward, from 7.2% to 6.6%?

    • Economic Slowdown: The RBI’s downgrade reflects concerns over a cyclical downturn, with GDP growth in Q2 FY25 at 5.4%, indicating fundamental challenges hindering growth prospects.
      • Fundamental challenges: Declining corporate investments, sliding consumption growth, and “softness” in urban demand have weakened the investment climate, prompting a downward revision in growth expectations.
    • Inflationary Pressures: Persistent inflation near double digits complicates monetary policy, forcing the RBI to consider prolonged high interest rates, which could further suppress growth and investments.

    What are the expected growth rates for major economies in 2025?

    • India: Projected to achieve a growth rate of 6.5% over the next five years, maintaining its status as the fastest-growing major economy globally, despite a recent dip in economic output in 2024.
    • China: Growth is expected to stabilize around 4-5%, lower than its historical rates due to structural challenges like demographic shifts and a cooling property sector.
    • United States: Growth is projected at 1.5-2%, as the Federal Reserve maintains a tight monetary policy to counter inflation.
    • Eurozone: Growth is forecasted at around 1%, reflecting a sluggish recovery from the energy crisis and geopolitical uncertainties.
    • Japan: Expected growth rate of 1-1.5%, supported by fiscal stimulus but constrained by aging demographics.
    • Emerging Markets (excluding China and India): Growth is expected to range from 3-4%, depending on commodity prices and fiscal discipline.

    How will inflation and monetary policy evolve?

    • Inflation Persistence: Inflation in India remains at the upper end of the permissible range, with food prices nearing double digits. This persistent inflation strengthens the argument for maintaining high interest rates, complicating the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) monetary policy decisions as they balance growth with inflation control.
    • Monetary Policy Adjustments: The RBI may need to reconsider its previous projections of GDP growth, which could lead to adjustments in interest rates. If inflation continues to be a concern, the RBI might maintain or even increase rates longer than necessary which impacts investment and economic activity.
    • Investment and Economic Recovery: A slowdown in corporate investments and a decline in household financial savings have been observed, which could hinder economic recovery.
      • The RBI’s ability to stimulate growth through monetary policy will depend on addressing these investment challenges and ensuring that fiscal measures effectively support economic activity without exacerbating inflation.

    What are the key risks and uncertainties facing the global economy?

    • Investment Slowdown: A significant challenge is the sluggish performance of corporate investments, exacerbated by high food inflation and muted urban demand. This trend poses risks for growth and job creation.
    • Savings-Investment Gap: A decline in household financial savings down to 5.3% of GDP from 7.3% coupled with rising household debt (5.8% of GDP) presents a risk to economic stability1.
    • Credit Growth Decline: Falling credit growth, particularly in household borrowing for home purchases and limited industrial appetite for new projects, indicates a tightening economic environment.
    • Fiscal Challenges: Increased state expenditures on subsidies may strain fiscal resources, potentially affecting overall economic sustainability and growth prospects.

    What should be done by the government? (Way forward)

    • Balanced Fiscal and Monetary Coordination: Governments should prioritize targeted fiscal measures to stimulate investment and demand while ensuring fiscal discipline, complemented by a flexible monetary policy that carefully balances inflation control with growth stimulation.
    • Boosting Household Savings and Investments: Implement policies to encourage higher household financial savings and incentivize corporate investments through tax reforms, reduced regulatory barriers, and support for credit access in productive sectors.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q The nature of economic growth in India in recent times is often described as jobless growth. Do you agree with this view? Give arguments in favour of your answer. (UPSC IAS/2015)

  • Mumps Vaccine

    Why in the News?

    Tamil Nadu Government has requested the Centre to consider including the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) due to surge in the Mumps cases across the State.

    Tamil Nadu’s UIP currently offers 11 vaccines protecting against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases, including:

    • Tuberculosis, diphtheria, pertussis, hepatitis B, haemophilus influenzae, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles, rubella, rota virus, pneumococcal, and Japanese encephalitis (in 14 endemic districts).
    • The Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine was added to the UIP in April 2017, but mumps is yet to be included.

    About Mumps Disease

    • Mumps is a contagious viral infection caused by the mumps virus, primarily affecting the salivary glands, leading to swelling near the ears (parotitis), fever, headache, and muscle aches.
    • It spreads through respiratory droplets or direct contact with saliva.
    • While often mild, complications can include orchitis (testicular inflammation), oophoritis (ovarian inflammation), encephalitis, or hearing loss.
    • There is no specific treatment, but supportive care like rest, hydration, and pain management helps.
    • Vaccination with the MMR vaccine is the best prevention, offering 78–88% protection.

    Which free immunised diseases are provided under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP)?

    • The UIP was launched in 1985 and became part of the National Health Mission in 2005 to provide free vaccination against vaccine-preventable diseases for children and pregnant women.
    • The programme now covers 12 diseases, including tuberculosis, polio, diphtheria, pertussis, measles, rubella, hepatitis B, pneumonia, rotavirus gastroenteritis, and Japanese encephalitis.
    • Key vaccines added over the years include Hepatitis B (2007), Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (2017), Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV), and Measles-Rubella Vaccine.
    • The entire cost of vaccines is covered by the Government of India, funded through taxes, with an annual budget of ₹7,234 crore (US$870 million) as of 2022.
    • The programme covers all residents of India, including foreign residents, ensuring nationwide access to life-saving vaccines.
    • 4 new vaccines have been introduced, including the Adult Japanese Encephalitis vaccine and Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, to address emerging health challenges.

    Note:

    Mission Indradhanush is a health initiative launched by the Government of India on 25 December 2014 by Union Health Minister J. P. Nadda. The mission aims to achieve 90% full immunization coverage in India by 2022, targeting vaccination against eight major vaccine-preventable diseases:

    • Diphtheria, Whooping Cough, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Childhood Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B, and Meningitis & Pneumonia caused by Haemophilus influenza type B.
      Additionally, it covers Rotavirus Diarrhea and Japanese Encephalitis in specific states and districts.

    The mission targets 201 districts in its first phase, focusing on areas with the highest number of unvaccinated children, particularly in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. The approach follows similar planning and administration as the Pulse Polio Immunisation (PPI) program.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016]  ‘Mission Indradhanush’ launched by the Government of India pertains to:

    (a) Immunization of children and pregnant women.

    (b) Construction of smart cities across the country.

    (c) India’s own search for the Earth-like planets in outer space.

    (d) New Educational Policy.

  • India’s First Bio-Bitumen National Highway Inaugurated

    Why in the News?

    India’s first bio-bitumen-based National Highway stretch was inaugurated on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

    About Bio-Bitumen

    • Bio-bitumen is a bio-based binder derived from renewable, sustainable sources such as: Vegetable oils, Crop stubble, Algae, Lignin (a component of wood), Animal manure.
    • It serves as an alternative to traditional bitumen, which is primarily derived from the distillation of crude oil.
    • The production of bio-bitumen reduces dependence on petroleum and is a step toward sustainable road construction and infrastructure development.

    Significance and Features of Bio-Bitumen:

    • Bio-bitumen reduces the carbon footprint associated with the traditional bitumen production process.
    • By using renewable sources such as lignin (a byproduct of wood), it helps mitigate environmental concerns like stubble burning and contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions, potentially by as much as 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.
    • India, which heavily imports traditional bitumen, can reduce its import dependency by switching to bio-bitumen made from locally available materials.
    • The use of bio-bitumen stimulates bio-refineries, creating opportunities for revenue generation and providing economic benefits to farmers and the bio-refining industry.

    India’s Bitumen Scenario:

    • India imports around 50% of its total annual bitumen requirements, which amounted to 3.21 million tonnes in FY 2023-24.
    • The country produced 5.24 million tonnes of bitumen in the same period.
    • India’s bitumen consumption has been steadily increasing, averaging 7.7 million tonnes annually over the past five years.
    • In 2023-24, India constructed around 12,300 km of national highways, averaging nearly 34 km per day.

     

  • Google’s GenCast AI

    Why in the News?

    Google DeepMind has unveiled its revolutionary GenCast AI model, designed to predict the weather more accurately and farther in advance than current forecasting tools.

    About GenCast:

    What is it?
    • GenCast is an AI-based weather forecasting model developed by Google DeepMind.
    • It uses machine learning techniques for more accurate and long-term predictions compared to traditional models.
    • Unlike traditional numerical weather prediction (NWP) models, GenCast uses an ensemble of AI-generated forecasts, trained on 40 years of reanalysis data.
    • Outperforms traditional tools in predicting extreme weather, tropical cyclones, and wind power production.
    How GenCast Works
    • Trained on 40 years of reanalysis data (1979–2019), blending historical data and modern forecasts.
    • It is powered by a neural network with 41,162 nodes and 240,000 edges, where nodes process data and edges connect them.
    • A diffusion model that refines noisy data in 30 steps to improve forecast accuracy.
    • It generates about 50 forecasts at once, providing probabilistic predictions (e.g., likelihood of rain, not exact amounts).
    • Generates forecasts in 8 minutes using a single TPU v5 unit, much faster than traditional NWP models, which take hours.
    Significance of GenCast
    • Outperforms ECMWF ensemble forecasts on 97.2% of targets, especially for extreme weather predictions.
    • Provides longer-term forecasts for up to 15 days, with spatial resolution of 0.25° x 0.25° and 12-hour intervals.
    • Offers probabilistic forecasts to help better prepare for extreme weather.
    • Faster processing than traditional models, reducing forecast time from hours to minutes.
    • Sustainability and scalability allow the model to be expanded to other areas of weather prediction.
    • Google collaborates with weather agencies to enhance AI forecasting methods while recognizing the importance of traditional models.

  • [23rd December 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Pointing the beacon at India’s undersea warfare power

    PYQ Relevance:

    Q) What are the maritime security challenges in India? Discuss the organisational, technical and procedural initiatives taken to improve maritime security. (UPSC CSE 2022)

    Mentor’s Comment: UPSC mains have always focused on topics like ‘Indo-Pacific’ (2020) and ‘Maritime Security’ (2022).

    Since late 2023, the Indian Navy has responded to numerous piracy incidents in the Indian Ocean, solidifying its role as a “first responder” in regional crises (Red Sea). These operations showcase India’s capabilities and reinforce its position as a preferred security partner in the region.

    Today’s Editorial focuses on Maritime security initiatives taken by the government and enhancement opportunities. This content can be used for presenting the main answer while talking on ‘Indo-Pacific issues’ and ‘security challenges in the Indian Ocean’.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    In 2024, the Indian Navy’s Operation ‘Sankalp’ expanded its maritime security efforts from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea, enhancing its role as a key security partner by addressing piracy, hijacking, and drone threats while tackling the Hauthis issue.

    • Additionally, the year saw notable advancements in the Navy’s operational preparedness, particularly in undersea warfare.
    What is Operation ‘Sankalp’?

    • The Indian Navy launched Operation ‘Sankalp’ on June 19, 2019, to ensure the safety of Indian ships in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
    • The operation was launched in response to rising tensions in the Gulf of Oman, where two oil tankers were attacked. The Indian Navy deploys ships and aircraft to the area to monitor and protect Indian-flagged vessels
    • The operation has provided safe passage for an average of 16 Indian-flagged ships daily. The operation is coordinated by the Indian Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, Shipping, Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the Directorate General of Shipping.

    What are the current advancements in India’s submarine capabilities?

    • INS Arighaat: India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, commissioned in August 2024, enhances the country’s nuclear triad by providing a credible deterrence against regional threats, particularly from China, with its capability to launch K-4 missiles over 3,500 kilometres.
      • Equipped with advanced sonar and propulsion systems, INS Arighaat significantly strengthens India’s maritime strike capabilities.
    • Project-77 (P-77): It is an Indian Navy acquisition program to procure nuclear-powered attack submarines.
      • The Cabinet Committee on Security recently cleared the long-pending Project-77 (P-77), giving its final approval to construct two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) at a cost of ₹40,000 crore. The delivery of the first SSN is scheduled for 2036-37.

    What is the relevance of Conventional Submarines?

    • Ongoing Importance: Despite the advancements in nuclear submarines, conventional submarines remain essential for various undersea missions that do not require nuclear capabilities.
    • Project-75: India is set to commission INS Vaghsheer (the 6th Scorpene submarine), as part of its collaboration with France, with plans to order three additional boats to replace older decommissioned ones.
    Advancements in Technology:

    • Air Independent Propulsion (AIP): The effectiveness of conventional submarines has improved due to AIP technology, prompting Project 75(I) to seek AIP-enabled boats from contenders like Spain and Germany.
    • Indigenous Content: Future Scorpene boats are expected to feature 60% indigenous content, while Project 75(I) aims for at least 45% in the first boat, increasing to 60% in subsequent units.
    • Development of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs): India has approved the construction of 100-tonne UUVs at a cost of ₹2,500 crore, enhancing undersea capabilities as a cost-effective strategic option. This initiative reflects India’s focus on niche technologies to address complex maritime threats effectively.Indigenous

    What are the Hurdles in Enhancing Undersea Capabilities?

    • Strategic Importance: The Indian government’s focus on enhancing the Navy’s undersea capabilities alongside surface and aviation elements aims to ensure maritime stability and security, contributing to a balanced blue water force.
    • Budgetary Challenges: Addressing long-standing budgetary issues is essential to align planned acquisitions and modernization efforts, as well as to mitigate excessive delays in project timelines.

    Way Forward:

    • Need for Sustained Funding: Continuous financial support for long-term projects, along with streamlined processes for defining requirements and evaluating tenders, is crucial for meeting the Navy’s strategic and operational needs.
    • Opportunities for Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with strategic allies and friendly maritime nations can enhance India’s maritime capabilities, support its vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), and promote a free and inclusive Indo-Pacific.

  • What are India’s plans for a quantum satellite?

    Why in the News?

    The GoI Department of Science and Technology has initiated the National Quantum Mission, with plans to launch a quantum satellite within the next 2-3 years to facilitate quantum communications.

    What is the National Quantum Mission?

    • The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a significant initiative launched by the Government of India, specifically under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), aimed at fostering research and development in quantum technologies.
    • Approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023, the mission has a budget of approximately ₹6,000 crore (about $730 million) and is set to be implemented from 2023 to 2031.

    The primary objectives of NQM include:

    • Development of Quantum Technologies: The mission aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits within eight years, enhancing India’s capabilities in quantum computing.
    • Quantum Communication: Establishing a secure quantum communication network that spans 2,000 kilometers, facilitating both domestic and international secure communications.
    • Quantum Sensing and Metrology: Advancing technologies for high-sensitivity magnetometers and atomic clocks, which are critical for precision timing and navigation.
    • Quantum Materials: Focusing on the design and synthesis of quantum materials necessary for the fabrication of advanced quantum devices.

    What is a quantum satellite?

    • A quantum satellite refers to a communications satellite that employs quantum mechanics principles to secure its signals.
    • This technology is pivotal for enhancing cybersecurity in communications, particularly as traditional encryption methods face vulnerabilities from advances in quantum computing.

    Key features of quantum satellites include:

    • Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): This technique allows two parties to securely share encryption keys using quantum properties. If an eavesdropper attempts to intercept the key, any measurement made will alter the state of the photons carrying the information, alerting the communicating parties to the breach.
    • Distance Capability: Unlike optical fibers, which have distance limitations (typically 100-250 km), quantum satellites can facilitate secure communications over much greater distances, making them suitable for national and international networks.

    What are the significance and drawbacks of QKD?

    • Unconditional Security: QKD provides a level of security that is theoretically unbreakable due to the laws of quantum physics. It ensures that any attempt at eavesdropping will be detectable.
    • Resistance to Quantum Threats: As quantum computers evolve, they pose a threat to current encryption methods. QKD offers a new layer of security that is resilient against these emerging threats.

    Drawbacks of QKD: 

    • Authentication Issues: QKD does not inherently authenticate the source of transmissions, which can be problematic.
    • Cost and Infrastructure: Implementing QKD networks can be expensive and complex due to hardware dependencies.
    • Limited Practical Security: The actual security provided by QKD systems may not always match theoretical expectations due to practical engineering challenges.
    • Denial-of-Service Vulnerabilities: Eavesdroppers can disrupt transmissions, potentially denying service to legitimate users.

    Way forward: 

    • Integrate Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): Complement QKD with PQC to address authentication and denial-of-service vulnerabilities, leveraging advanced classical encryption alongside quantum security.
    • Invest in Scalable Infrastructure: Develop cost-effective, upgradeable quantum hardware and standardized protocols to ensure widespread and sustainable adoption of QKD systems.