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GS Paper: GS3

  • Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) Mission

    Why in the News?

    European scientists are preparing to execute a first-of-its-kind ‘Double Slingshot’ orbital maneuver to guide the JUICE probe towards Jupiter using a double slingshot technique.

    About JUICE Mission:

    Details
    Launch
    • By European Space Agency (ESA) on April 14, 2023, Ariane 5 rocket
    • To study Jupiter’s Moons
    Aim Investigating the potential for life on Jupiter’s moons and understanding the Jovian system
    Mission Duration
    • Approximately 12 years
    • Expected arrival at Jupiter in July 2031
    Primary Objectives
    • Ganymede Exploration: Study its surface, subsurface, magnetic field, and potential subsurface ocean to assess habitability.
    • Europa Exploration: Investigate the surface, subsurface, and potential ocean beneath the ice; analyze interactions with Jupiter’s magnetosphere to assess its potential to support life.
    • Callisto Exploration: Study its surface, geological diversity, and possible subsurface ocean; understand its history of impacts and tectonic activity.
    • Jupiter System Exploration: Analyze Jupiter’s atmosphere, magnetosphere, and their interactions with the moons; study the dynamics of the magnetosphere and its influence on the surrounding environment.
    Key Instruments
    • JANUS: Jovis, Amorum ac Natorum Undique Scrutator (Optical Camera)
    • RIME: Radar for Icy Moons Exploration
    • J-MAG: JUICE Magnetometer
    • MAJIS: Moons and Jupiter Imaging Spectrometer
    Significance
    • First interplanetary spacecraft to the outer Solar System planets not launched by the United States
    • First mission set to orbit a moon other than Earth’s Moon

    What is the Double Slingshot Maneuver?

    • The JUICE probe will first use the moon’s gravity to set itself on the correct trajectory towards Earth.
    • Immediately after, it will use Earth’s gravity to slow down and redirect towards Venus and, eventually, Jupiter.

    Significance of the Gravity Assist

    • This technique, used for decades in space exploration, involves using a planet or moon’s gravity to alter the speed or direction of a spacecraft.
    • It is unique as it involves back-to-back gravity assists using both the moon and Earth’s gravity, which has never been attempted before.

    PYQ:

    [2020] The experiment will employ a trio of spacecraft flying in formation in the shape of an equilateral triangle that has sides one million kilometres long, with lasers shining between the craft.” The experiment in question refers to

    (a) Voyager-2

    (b) New Horizons

    (c) LISA Pathfinder

    (d) Evolved LISA

  • [pib] Schedule IV of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972

    Why in the News?

    • Many individuals, organizations, and zoos in India currently possess living specimens of exotic animal species listed under Schedule IV of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
      • These exotic species must be reported and registered as mandated by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in the PARIVESH 2.0 Portal.

    Legal Framework for Reporting of Animals in Possession

    • The Living Animal Species (Reporting and Registration) Rules, 2024, were notified under Section 49 M of the Wild Life (Protection) Act via a Gazette Notification on February 28, 2024.
    • Who Must Register: Any person or entity in possession of a living specimen of species listed in Schedule IV of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
      • Failure to report and register these species within the stipulated time frame may result in penal actions.

    About Schedule IV of the WPA

    Details
    Protection Level Provides legal protection to species, prohibiting their hunting, capture, or trade. Protection is less stringent compared to Schedules I & II.
    Offenses and Penalties Violations can lead to fines and imprisonment, but penalties are generally less severe than those for species in higher schedules.
    New Amendment (2022) The Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act, 2022, inserted a new Schedule IV for specimens listed in the CITES Appendices.
    Examples of Species Flamingos, Hares, Falcons, Kingfishers, Magpie, and Horseshoe Crabs.
    Purpose Ensures legal protection to prevent exploitation and population decline of species that are not critically endangered but still need protection.
    General Protection Role Plays an important role in broader conservation efforts, offering safeguards to a wider range of species in India.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] If a particular plant species is placed under Schedule VI of The Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, what is the implication?

    (a) A licence in required to cultivate that plant.

    (b) Such a plant cannot be cultivated under any circumstances.

    (c) It is a Genetically Modified crop plant.

    (d) Such a plant is invasive and harmful to the ecosystem.

  • What is Quantum Non-Locality?

    Why in the News?

    A recent study published in Physical Review Letters by Indian researchers has revealed that a universal standard for measuring quantum non-locality is impossible.

    What is Quantum Nonlocality?

    • Quantum Nonlocality is a mysterious connection between distant objects that challenges the classical idea of local realism, where no faster-than-light communication is allowed.
    • It’s crucial for technologies like secure communication, random number generation, and cryptographic key creation.
    • Easy Explanation:
      • Imagine two particles that are created together and then move far apart, even to opposite ends of the universe.
      • In classical physics, any effect on one particle would need a signal to travel to the other, taking time.
      • But in quantum physics, Quantum Nonlocality means these particles are instantly connected, affecting each other no matter the distance, as if linked by an invisible thread that works faster than light.

    Historical Background: Bell’s Theorem (1964)

    • Physicist John Stewart Bell introduced a theorem that challenged the classical idea of ‘local realism’ in quantum systems.
      • Local Realism: In classical physics, objects are believed to have definite properties independent of observation and are only influenced by their immediate surroundings.
      • Quantum Challenge: Bell demonstrated that in quantum systems with multiple, distant parts, correlations appear that cannot be explained by local realism.
    • Bell’s theorem was confirmed through experiments, leading to the recognition of quantum nonlocality, which was honored with the 2022 Physics Nobel Prize.

    Recent Research and Findings

    • The research demonstrates that a universal standard for measuring and comparing quantum nonlocality is impossible.
      • It shows that the nature of nonlocality varies based on the type of correlation, with infinite unique points on the correlation boundary.
      • There is no single, universal resource in the realm of quantum nonlocality; instead, each nonlocal resource is unique, capable of performing specific tasks that others cannot.
    • This observation plays a key role in secure communication, random number certification, and cryptographic key generation.

    PYQ:

    [2022] Which one of the following is the context in which the term “qubit” is mentioned?

    (a) Cloud Services

    (b) Quantum Computing

    (c) Visible Light Communication Technologies

    (d) Wireless Communication Technologies

  • What is the Hayflick Limit?

    Why in the News?

    Leonard Hayflick, the renowned biomedical researcher who made a discovery about the limits of cell division in somatic cells (Hayflick Limit) has passed away at 98.

    What is the Hayflick Limit?

    • In the early 1960s, Hayflick discovered that somatic (non-reproductive) cells have a finite number of divisions, typically between 40-60 times.
    • This phenomenon, the ‘Hayflick limit’ suggests that aging occurs because cells eventually stop dividing.
      • This leads to the accumulation of senescent cells that contribute to the aging process.
    • The “ultimate Hayflick limit” for humans is estimated to be around 125 years.
    • Beyond this, no amount of lifestyle changes or medical interventions can extend the human lifespan.
    • Hayflick’s discovery has been applied to cells from various animals, revealing different Hayflick limits based on species’ lifespans.
    • Ex. Galapagos turtles, have cells that can divide approximately 110 times, whereas laboratory mice have a much lower limit of around 15 divisions.

    Broader Implications and Research

    • Hayflick’s discovery led to the discovery of telomeres in the 1970s.
      • Telomeres are protective DNA sequences at the ends of chromosomes, which shorten with each cell division.
    • When telomeres reach a critical length, cell division stops, which correlates with the Hayflick limit.
    • In the 1980s, scientists discovered telomerase, a protein capable of replenishing telomeres, which is naturally active in cancer cells, allowing them to bypass the Hayflick limit.

    PYQ:

    [2011] Regular intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended in the diet since they are a good source of antioxidants. How do antioxidants help a person maintain health and promote longevity?

    (a) They activate the enzymes necessary for vitamin synthesis in the body and help prevent vitamin deficiency

    (b) They prevent excessive oxidation of carbohydrates, fats and proteins in the body and help avoid unnecessary wastage of energy

    (c) They neutralize the free radicals produced in the body during metabolism

    (d) They activate certain genes in the cells of the body and help delay the ageing process

  • The path to Viksit Bharat runs through fields  

    Why in the News?

    India’s 78th Independence Day is a time to reflect on our significant successes and setbacks. We should learn from both to make quicker progress towards the Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat@2047 by 2047.

    Key Aspects of Viksit Bharat@2047

    • Economic Growth: The vision aims to elevate India to the status of the world’s third-largest economy and strive for a $30 trillion economy by 2047.
    • Environmental Sustainability: Viksit Bharat aims to preserve biodiversity and mitigate climate change impacts through restoration and conservation efforts.
    • Social Progress: The initiative seeks to build an inclusive society that respects cultural diversity and ensures the dignity and well-being of all citizens.
    • Good Governance: Effective governance is a cornerstone of the Viksit Bharat vision, focusing on accountability, transparency, and sound policies that are responsive to the needs of the people.
    • Youth Engagement: Recognizing the potential of India’s youth, the government has launched initiatives like the “Voice of Youth” portal to encourage young people to contribute ideas for achieving the goals of Viksit Bharat.

    Economic Challenges

    • Weak Domestic Demand: Stagnant or declining demand for goods and services due to low-income growth, high inflation, unemployment, and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
    • High Unemployment: Despite rapid growth, unemployment remains a serious issue, worsened by the pandemic. The unemployment rate in India rose to 8.1 per cent in April 2024 from 7.4 per cent in March 2024, according to CMIE’s Consumer Pyramids Household Survey. 
    • Poor Infrastructure: India lacks adequate infrastructure like roads, railways, ports, power, water and sanitation, hampering economic development. The infrastructure gap is estimated at around $1.5 trillion.
    • Balance of Payments Deterioration: India runs a persistent current account deficit, with imports exceeding exports. Exports and imports decreased by 6.59% and 3.63% respectively in 2022.
    • High Private Debt Levels: India has witnessed a significant rise in debt levels in recent years.
      • According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), the total non-financial sector debt reached 167% of GDP in March 2020, up from 151% in March 2016. 
      • Household debt in India rose to 40.10% of GDP in the fourth quarter of 2023, up from 39% in the previous quarter. 

    Military Challenges

    • Securing Borders: Despite conflicts with Pakistan and China, India has reasonably managed border security. However, the rapid rise of China poses economic and military challenges.
    • China’s Growing Influence: Almost all of India’s neighbours are moving closer to China, necessitating better policy and diplomacy to secure India’s interests and ensure regional stability.
    • Military Modernization and Resource Allocation: India’s dependence on foreign arms imports, despite efforts to promote self-reliance through initiatives like “Make in India,” highlights the need for a robust domestic defense industry.
      • The country has been the largest arms importer from 2018 to 2022, indicating ongoing challenges in achieving military self-sufficiency

    Suggestive measures: (Way forward)

    • Agricultural Reforms: Investment in agricultural research and development, irrigation, and land-lease markets is vital. Building value chains for perishables can enhance food security and adapt to climate challenges.
    • Nutritional Security: Transitioning from mere food security to nutritional security is crucial, addressing issues like child malnutrition, which affects 35% of children under five.
    • Support for Farmers: Implementing subsidies for pulses and other sustainable crops can encourage healthier diets and environmental benefits. The government should provide financial incentives to farmers to shift from water-intensive crops to pulses.
    • Infrastructure Development: Continued investment in infrastructure, including transportation and digital connectivity, is essential for economic growth and improving citizens’ quality of life.
    • Education and Skill Development: Reforms in education to prioritize skill development and innovation are necessary to prepare the workforce for emerging industries and ensure inclusive growth.
    • Healthcare Initiatives: Expanding access to affordable healthcare services nationwide is critical for enhancing public health and productivity.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the defence sector is now set to be liberalized: What influence this is expected to have on Indian defence and economy in the short and long run? (UPSC IAS/2016)

  • Yaks from China stray into eastern Ladakh

    Why in the News?

    Around 40 Chinese yaks ventured into Indian Territory in the “Demchok” area of eastern Ladakh and are currently under the control of the local villagers.

    Grazing land issue at LAC:

    • Nomads from both sides traditionally access grazing grounds across the LAC.
    • Indian nomads have been stopped by Chinese soldiers when crossing to the Chinese side.
    • Demchok nomads lost access to Lungkar Valley in 2022 and Nilung Valley in 2017.
    • Loss of these areas has negatively impacted the livelihoods of border residents.
    • China expanded its presence on the Indian side of Charding nala (adjacent to Demchok) since 2020 stand-off.

    About Himalayan Yaks in India:

    Details
    Species Belongs to the Bovini tribe, including bison, buffaloes, and cattle.
    Adaptation Can tolerate extreme cold, down to -40°C; adapted for high altitudes with long, insulating hair.
    Cultural Significance Valued by Himalayan peoples;

    Linked to Tibetan Buddhism legend of Rinpoche.
    Raising Method Traditionally reared under a transhumance system; involves significant hardship.
    Habitat Endemic to the Tibetan Plateau and high-altitude regions.
    Altitude Preference Thrives above 14,000 feet; typically climbs to 20,000 feet and rarely descends below 12,000 feet.
    Yak-Rearing States in India Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir.
    Population Decline 2019 census: 58,000 yaks in India, a 25% drop from 2012; decline due to low remuneration and market.
    Significance Provides crucial nutritional and livelihood security for pastoral nomads in high-altitude regions.
    Threats Climate change causing heat stress; inbreeding due to closed borders limiting genetic diversity.
    Protection Status* – IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
    – CITES: Appendix I
    – Indian Wildlife Act: Schedule I
    Food Status* Approved as a ‘food animal’ by the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI).

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] What is/are unique about ‘Kharai camel’, a breed found in India?

    1. It is capable of swimming up to three kilometres in seawater.

    2. It survives by grazing on mangroves.

    3. It lives in the wild and cannot be domesticated.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Banni Grasslands of Kachchh

    Why in the News?

    A study conducted by researchers at Kachchh University assessed the suitability of different areas in Banni for sustainable grassland restoration, with ecological value being the primary criterion.

    Restoration of Banni Grasslands: Highlights of the Study

    Recent Study:

    • Objective: A study conducted by researchers at KSKV Kachchh University assessed the suitability of different areas in Banni for sustainable grassland restoration, with ecological value being the primary criterion.
    • Need for restoration: Originally covering about 3,800 sq. km, the Banni grasslands have shrunk to about 2,600 sq. km.
    • Categories of Restoration Zones: The researchers divided the grassland into five categories based on restoration suitability:
      • Highly Suitable: 937 sq. km (36%)
      • Suitable: 728 sq. km (28%)
      • Moderately Suitable: 714 sq. km (27%)
      • Marginally Suitable: 182 sq. km (7%)
      • Not Suitable: 61 sq. km (2%)
    • Restoration Potential: The “highly suitable” and “suitable” zones, making up nearly two-thirds of the Banni grasslands, can be restored easily by providing adequate water sources.

    About Banni Grasslands:

    • The Banni Grassland is a salt-tolerant ecosystem located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, covering around 3,847 square km.
    • It is said to be Asia’s largest grassland (TOI).
    • The climate is arid and semi-arid, with extremely hot summers (temperatures above 45°C) and mild winters (12°C to 25°C), receiving 300-400 mm of annual rainfall mainly during the monsoon.
    • It is inhabited by pastoral communities like the Maldharis, who rely on livestock grazing (cattle, buffalo, and sheep) for their livelihood.
    • Agriculture is limited due to arid conditions, with some areas used for salt production.
    • Flora: Grasses such as Dichanthium, Sporobolus, and Cenchrus species, with salt-tolerant plants, shrubs, and trees like Acacia and the invasive Prosopis juliflora.
    • Fauna: Indian wolf, hyena, chinkara, Great Indian Bustard, flamingos, and various raptors, reptiles, and invertebrates.

    PYQ:

    [2021] The vegetation of Savannah consists of grassland with scattered small trees, but extensive areas have no trees. The forest development in such areas is generally kept in check by one or more or a combination of some conditions. Which of the following are such conditions?​

    1. Burrowing animals and termites​

    2. Fire​

    3. Grazing herbivores​

    4. Seasonal rainfall​

    5. Soil properties​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.​

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 4 and 5​

    (c) 2, 3 and 4

    (d) 1, 3 and 5​

  • Waggle Dance of Bees

    Why in the News?

    Two scientists have raised concerns about “problematic behaviour” in papers on honeybee communication co-authored by Dr. Mandyam Srinivasan, a highly honoured neuroscientist.

    About Waggle Dance of Bees

    Details
    Purpose Communicates location of food sources to other bees.
    Dance Pattern Figure-eight (8) movement with a waggle run in the middle.
    Direction Indication Angle of waggle run shows direction relative to the sun.
    Distance Indication Duration of waggle run indicates distance to the food source.
    Efficiency Enhances foraging efficiency by guiding bees directly to food sources.
    Environmental Impact Accuracy affected by Sun position, wind, and landscape.
    Scientific Importance Decoded by Nobel laureate Karl von Frisch; an example of advanced insect communication.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Which of the following organisms perform waggle dance for others of their kin to indicate the direction and the distance to a source of their food?

    (a) Butterflies

    (b) Dragonflies

    (c) Honey Bees

    (d) Wasps

  • Zoopharmacognosy: the study of how animals self-medicate

    Why in the News?

    Researchers highlighted the zoopharmacognosy (practice of self-medication) by a Sumatran orangutan using the plant Fibraurea tinctoria to treat a facial wound.

    What is Zoopharmacognosy?

    • Zoopharmacognosy is the study of how animals use natural substances like plants, soils, and insects to treat their own illnesses. 
    • The term was coined by ecologist D.H. Janzen from the University of Pennsylvania.
    • It shows that animals have an instinctive ability to find and use natural remedies. 

    Key Studies and Observations

    • Neanderthals: In 2012, a Nature publication found that Neanderthals in Northern Spain used plants like yarrow and chamomile to treat infections.

    Other Animal Species:

    • Primates: Chimpanzees eat bitter leaves, like Vernonia amygdalina, to get rid of intestinal worms.
      • Pregnant lemurs nibbling on tamarind leaves to aid milk production.
    • Reindeer: Reindeer eat mushrooms like Amanita muscaria, possibly to fight off parasites.
    • Birds: Starlings line their nests with antimicrobial plants to protect their young from diseases.
    • Elephants: Pregnant elephants in Kenya eat specific plants to help induce labor.
    • Dogs: Dogs chew grass and then vomit to clear their stomachs of infections.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of:

    (a) Anti-malarial drug

    (b) Biodiesel

    (c) Pulp for paper industry

    (d) Textile fibre

  • [pib] REACHOUT Scheme

    Why in the News?

    The Indian student team, supported by the REACHOUT (Research, Education, Training and Outreach) scheme, achieved remarkable success at the 17th edition of the International Earth Sciences Olympiad (IESO) held in Beijing, China.

    What is the REACHOUT Scheme?

    • It is an initiative by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) under the broader PRITHVI (PRITHvi Vigyan) program. 
    • The scheme aims to enhance the understanding and dissemination of Earth system sciences through research, education, and outreach activities.

    About the International Earth Sciences Olympiad (IESO)

    • The IESO was established in 2003 during the International Geoscience Education Organization Council Meeting in Calgary, Canada.
    • The competition focuses on promoting interest in earth system sciences, particularly in addressing climate change, environmental challenges, and natural disasters.

    India’s Participation:

    • India has participated in the IESO since 2007 and hosted the 10th edition in Mysore.
    • The Indian National Earth Science Olympiad (INESO) serves as a national-level prelude to the IESO, held across schools in India.
    • Top-performing students from INESO represent India at the IESO, with support from MoES and the Geological Society of India.

    PYQ:

    [2019] Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the

    (a) Department of Science and Technology

    (b) Ministry of Labour and Employment

    (c) NITI Aayog

    (d) Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship