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GS Paper: GS3

  • Methane’s Contribution in Climate Change

    Why in the News?

    The European Union introduced a new regulation in May 2024 requiring fossil fuel companies to routinely measure, report, and reduce methane emissions.

    About Methane Emissions:

    Details
    Nature Colorless, Odourless.

    Considered a short-lived climate pollutant due to its shorter atmospheric lifetime compared to CO2.
    Global Warming Potential (GWP) 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a short term.
    GWP100: 28 (over 100 years)Accounts for approximately 30% of global warming.
    Atmospheric Lifetime Breaks down in about 12 years; shorter-lived compared to CO2.
    Major Sources – Cattle farming: 32% of human-caused methane emissions (includes manure and enteric fermentation)
    – Landfills: Approximately 20%
    – Wastewater treatment: Around 8%
    – Rice cultivation: About 10%
    – Industrial processes: Varied but significant
    Natural Non-Human Sources Includes wetlands and permafrost, which release methane through natural processes.
    Impact Compared to CO2 Traps 84 times as much heat as CO2 over a 20-year period.
    CO2 has a longer-term warming effect but is less potent.
    Key Initiatives Global Methane Pledge: Launched at UN COP26, signed by over 90 countries, led by the US and EU.

    India did not sign.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Consider the following:

    1. Carbon monoxide
    2. Methane
    3. Ozone
    4. Sulphur dioxide

    Which of the above are released into atmosphere due to the burning of crop/biomass residue?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 1 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

  • Gut molecule in C. Elegans Worms slows fat burning

    Why in the News?

    Researchers have discovered a mechanism in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) worms that explains why fat loss slows down during fasting.

    Fasting and Fat Metabolism

    • The brain is known to regulate fat production and breakdown in humans, other mammals, and model organisms like C. elegans.
    • In 2017, researchers identified FLP-7 hormone in the brain that triggers fat burning in the gut of C. elegans.
    • However, it was unclear how the gut communicates back to the brain, as C. elegans lacks sensory nerves in their intestines.
    • The study reveals that during fasting, the gut produces a form of insulin called INS-7, which signals the brain to halt fat burning.
    • Unlike traditional insulin, which activates insulin receptors, INS-7 blocks these receptors, leading to a cascade of events that stop the production of the fat-burning hormone FLP-7.

    About Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans):

    Details
    Overview A small, free-living nematode (roundworm) used as a model organism in biological research.
    Size Approximately 1 millimeter in length.
    Habitat Found in soil environments worldwide.
    Reproduction Primarily self-fertilizing hermaphrodites; males make up a small percentage and can mate with hermaphrodites.
    Genome First multicellular organism to have its genome fully sequenced; about 20,000 genes.
    Chromosomes Six chromosomes (five autosomes, one sex chromosome).
    Body Plan Approximately 1,000 cells in an adult hermaphrodite; transparent body allows for easy microscopic observation.
    Lifespan Around 2 to 3 weeks under laboratory conditions.
    Research Contributions Instrumental in discoveries related to apoptosis, RNA interference, gene regulation, and human diseases.

     

    PYQ:

    [2013] Improper handling and storage of cereal grains and oilseeds result in the production of toxins known as aflatoxins which are not generally destroyed by normal cooking process. Aflatoxins are produced by:

    (a) Bacteria

    (b) Protozoa

    (c) Moulds

    (d) Viruses

  • INS Arighat: India’s second nuclear sub

    Why in the News?

    India’s second nuclear submarine, the Arighaat, was officially commissioned into the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, following rigorous trials conducted over the past few months.

    Status of Navy’s Submarines in India: 

    • Current Fleet: The Indian Navy’s submarine fleet includes two nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (INS Arihant and INS Arighaat) and 16 conventional submarines. The Navy is also constructing two additional larger SSBNs.
    • Operational Readiness: The Navy is authorized to maintain a fleet of 18 submarines, but operational availability can be affected by maintenance and refitting schedules, with about 30% of the fleet typically under repair.

    About the newly inducted INS Arighaat

    • INS Arighaat is a 6,000-tonne Arihant-class ballistic missile submarine, which will join its predecessor, INS Arihant, as a vital component of India’s nuclear triad.
    • The submarine can carry up to 12 K-15 SLBMs with a range of approximately 750 km or four K-4 SLBMs exceeding 3,500 km.
      • It is powered by an 83 MW pressurized light-water nuclear reactor, allowing it to remain submerged for extended periods without surfacing compared to the diesel-electric submarine.
    • It will enhance India’s nuclear deterrence, support strategic balance in the region, and play a crucial role in national security.

    How does it significantly strengthen India’s nuclear triad?

    • Enhances Second-Strike Capability:  With two nuclear submarines now operational, India can maintain a constant presence of a submarine patrolling its waters, ready to launch a nuclear strike at short notice in retaliation.  
    • Expands Missile Reach: INS Arighaat is equipped with indigenously developed K-15 missiles with a range of over 700 km and long-lasting availability underwater due to a nuclear-powered engine without surfacing.
    • From the South China Sea, these submarines can potentially target locations in China, including its capital Beijing.  
    • Both of this major developments will provide India with a more balanced and robust nuclear deterrent capability across all three domains – land, air, and sea.

    Way forward: 

    • Indigenous Submarine Development: Accelerate the development and commissioning of indigenous SSBNs (Submersible Ship Ballistic Missile Nuclear) and advanced SLBMs (Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles) to further strengthen India’s strategic autonomy and ensure sustained deterrence capabilities.
    • Strategic Partnerships and Modernization: Enhance collaboration with global naval powers for technology transfers and expertise while modernizing the current submarine fleet to ensure continued operational readiness and address emerging maritime security challenges.

    Mains PYQ: 

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

  • [pib] Project NAMAN

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Army has launched the first phase of Project NAMAN, aimed at providing comprehensive support and services to Defence Pensioners, Veterans, and their families.

    About Project NAMAN:

    Details
    Launched By Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA)
    Purpose To provide dedicated support and services to Defence Pensioners, Veterans, and their families.
    Core Implementation Centered on the SPARSH (System for Pension Administration Raksha) digital pension system, which streamlines pension-related processes.
    Key Features Establishment of Common Service Centres (CSCs) for offering SPARSH-enabled pension services, Government to Citizen (G2C) services, and Business to Consumer (B2C) services.
    Initial Deployment 14 CSCs established across key locations in India including New Delhi (first center), Jalandhar, Leh, Dehradun, Lucknow, Jodhpur etc.
    Expansion Plans Approximately 200 centers are planned nationwide over the next 2-3 years.
    Infrastructure Support HDFC Bank provided the necessary IT infrastructure for the CSCs, while local military stations contributed essential physical infrastructure and facilities.
    Community Impact Enhances access to essential services for veterans and their families like grievance redressal and also provides entrepreneurial opportunities for Veterans and Next of Kin (NOKs), who manage the CSCs.
    Support for Operators Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), selected from among the veterans or NOKs, manage each CSC.

    Comprehensive training and a monthly monetary grant of ₹20,000 from HDFC Bank for the first 12 months to assist in stabilization.

  • [pib] Novel Nanopolymer developed by INST Mohali

    Why in the News

    Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) Mohali, have developed novel electrochemical and optical sensors using a new group of nano polymer materials.

    About the Novel Nanopolymer:

    Novel nanopolymers are innovative polymer materials that incorporate nanostructures or nanoparticles to impart unique properties.

    • They are prepared using various methods like vapor condensation, vacuum evaporation, electrospinning, and chemical synthesis to create nanofibers, core-shell structures, hollow fibers, and tubes with diameters down to a few nanometers.
    • Examples: Silicon nanospheres that are much harder than regular silicon, with hardness between sapphire and diamond, and bio-based N-heterocyclic poly(aryl ether ketone) with high biomass content and superior properties
    • Applications of Novel Nanopolymers:
      • Biosensors and optoelectronics utilizing the fluorescence and magnetic properties of nanoparticles.
      • Drug delivery, tissue engineering, and gene therapy using biodegradable nanoparticle systems.
      • Forensics for drug detection, fingerprinting, DNA analysis, and sensors.
      • High-temperature-resistant plastics with improved properties.

    These are the Novel Nanopolymers developed by INST:

    Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) 2-dimensional (2D) Materials
    Details Crystalline materials with metal ions and organic ligands form porous structures. Materials a few atomic layers thick with unique electrical, optical, and mechanical properties.
    Surface Area Extremely high (over 10,000 m²/g), ideal for adsorption. High surface-to-volume ratio, enhancing interactions for sensing and energy storage.
    Versatility Customizable for gas storage, separation, catalysis, and sensing. Functionalizable for bio-sensing and environmental monitoring.
    Properties High porosity and stability in harsh environments. Excellent conductivity, flexibility, and strength, useful in electronics and optoelectronics.
    Sensing Applications Detects gases, toxins, and biomarkers with high sensitivity. Detects gases, biomolecules, and pollutants quickly and efficiently.
    Examples Various MOFs designed for specific uses. Includes graphene, MoS2, MXenes.

     

    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

  • Cabinet approves BioE3 Policy for Fostering High-Performance Biomanufacturing  

    Why in the News?

    The Union Cabinet has approved the ‘BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy’ proposed by the Department of Biotechnology to promote advanced biomanufacturing.

    What is the BioE3 Policy?

    The BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy is a strategic initiative approved by the Indian Cabinet to foster high-performance biomanufacturing. 

    Aims and Objectives of the Policy:

    • Innovation Support: The policy promotes research and development (R&D) and entrepreneurship in various thematic sectors, facilitating technological advancement and commercialization.
    • Biomanufacturing Hubs: It proposes the establishment of Biomanufacturing & Bio-AI hubs and Biofoundries to enhance India’s bioeconomy.
    • Focus Areas: The policy targets several strategic sectors, including high-value bio-based chemicals, biopolymers, smart proteins, precision biotherapeutics, climate-resilient agriculture, carbon capture, and marine and space research.

    Significance of the Policy

    • Economic Growth: It is expected to catalyze a “bio revolution” similar to the IT revolution, generating substantial job opportunities in biotechnology and biosciences.
    • Sustainability Goals: The policy aligns with government initiatives for achieving a ‘Net Zero’ carbon economy and promotes sustainable lifestyles, thereby steering India towards accelerated green growth and a circular bio-economy.
    • Job Creation: By expanding the skilled workforce in biotechnology, the policy aims to create various kinds of employment opportunities, addressing critical societal issues such as climate change, food security, and human health.

    Present Status of Indian Bio-economy

    • Growing Potential: The biotechnology sector is seen as a key player in addressing challenges in health, agriculture, environment, and energy. India has a large pool of young, skilled workers, with 47% of its population under the age of 25.
    • Investment in R&D: Despite its potential, India spends less than 1% of its GDP on research, compared to countries like Israel and South Korea, which invest over 4%.
    • Existing Infrastructure: The government has established 9 biotech parks and 60 bio-incubators, which support the growth of the biotechnology sector.

    Challenges Ahead

    • Educational Gaps: The current educational curriculum does not adequately prepare students for industry demands, creating a skills mismatch.
    • Funding Issues: There is a lack of venture capital funding due to information asymmetry regarding the biotech industry, which hampers innovation and growth.
    • Clinical Trials: India conducts a low percentage of clinical trials compared to global standards, which is a concern for the development of biopharmaceuticals.
    • Research Investment: The government currently covers over 60% of total R&D spending, which is very different from countries where the private sector contributes a large portion.

    Way forward: 

    • Enhance Industry-Academia Collaboration: Encourage partnerships between educational institutions and biotech companies to align curricula with industry needs, thereby reducing the skills mismatch and preparing students for emerging job markets.
    • Increase Private Sector Investment: Implement policies and incentives to attract more private sector investment in R&D, such as tax benefits, public-private partnerships, and improved access to venture capital, to stimulate innovation and reduce reliance on government funding.

  • Study reveals intriguing Magnetic behavior on Mars

    Why in the News?

    A study conducted by the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) revealed significant variations in the strength of Mars’ crustal magnetic field between day and night.

    Notable facts about Mars:

    • Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun and the second-smallest in the Solar System, larger only than Mercury.
    • Named after the Roman god of war, Mars is often called the “Red Planet” due to its reddish appearance from iron oxide on its surface.
    • It is a terrestrial planet with a thin atmosphere, featuring surface characteristics like impact craters, valleys, deserts, and polar ice caps.
    • Mars shares similar days and seasons to Earth because of its comparable rotational period and axial tilt.
    • It hosts Olympus Mons, the largest volcano and highest mountain on any planet, and Valles Marineris, one of the largest canyons in the Solar System.

    Key Findings on Mars’s Magnetic 

    • Mars’ crustal magnetic field is significantly stronger during the daytime and nearly non-existent at night-time.
      • This suggests a diurnal variation in the magnetic field strength on the Martian surface.
    • The crustal magnetic field of Mars is primarily located in the southern hemisphere, specifically poleward of 30°S latitude.
    • The magnetic fields are scattered within a region between 120° E and 240° E, indicating uneven distribution across the Martian surface.
    • The daytime crustal magnetic field plays a crucial role in controlling the ionosphere in Mars’ southern hemisphere.
    • This influence impacts communication and navigation systems of future missions.

    Data Utilization from MAVEN Satellite:

    • The study utilized data from the MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN) Satellite, which has been orbiting Mars since 2014.
    • MAVEN’s data on electron density and magnetic field were critical in investigating how Mars’ crustal magnetic field affects its plasma environment and ionosphere.

    Significance of the Study

    • Understanding Mars’ crustal magnetic field is essential for future robotic and manned missions, as it provides natural magnetic shielding against space radiation.
    • The insights from the study can help in developing strategies to mitigate the effects of space weather on spacecraft and astronauts.

    PYQ:

    [2016] 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 Mars in its very first attempt.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

  • Land-Based Deep Depression causing extreme floods in Gujarat

    Why in the News?

    • Gujarat and parts of Rajasthan are facing severe flooding caused by a land-based deep depression.
      • The unusual formation of this deep depression over land was intensified by moisture influx from soils or the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.

    What is Land-Based Deep Depression?

    • A land-based deep depression is a type of cyclonic system characterized by a significant drop in atmospheric pressure leading to sustained wind and significant weather impact.
    • They form and intensify over land, which is relatively rare due to the limited availability of moisture.
    • Characteristics:
      • It forms over land or water.
      • Wind Speed ranges from 51 to 62 km/h, just below the threshold for a tropical cyclone (62-88 km/h).
      • Relies on moisture from soil and surrounding environments rather than oceanic sources.
      • It often has an unpredictable path and can cause significant rainfall and localized flooding.

    Implications of Land-Based Deep Depressions

    • These systems can bring prolonged and intense rainfall, leading to widespread flooding, especially in regions unaccustomed to high levels of precipitation.
    • Heavy rainfall can lead to significant soil erosion, affecting agricultural productivity and altering landscapes.
    • Prolonged flooding can cause waterlogging in agricultural fields, leading to soil salinization and reduced fertility.

    PYQ:

    [2012] Consider the following statements:

    1. The duration of the monsoon decreases from southern India to northern India.

    2. The amount of annual rainfall in the northern plains of India decreases from east to west.

    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

  • Species in News: Atlantic Bluefin Tuna

    Why in the News?

    The Atlantic bluefin tuna, already heavily overfished, now faces a new threat from warming seas, causing it to migrate further north.

    Atlantic Bluefin Tuna (Thunnus thynnus)

    Details
    Scientific Classification Family: Scombridae; Species: Thunnus thynnus.
    Common Names Northern bluefin tuna, Giant bluefin tuna (for individuals over 150 kg), formerly known as “tunny”.
    Habitat and Range Western and Eastern Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea; extinct in the Black Sea.
    Size Can weigh up to 680 kg; one of the largest Perciformes.
    Commercial Importance Highly valued in the Japanese market for sushi and sashimi; foundation of a major global fishery.
    Conservation Status Overfished; dramatic stock declines (72% in Eastern Atlantic, 82% in Western Atlantic);

    Moved to “Least Concern” by IUCN in 2021 due to some population recovery;

    Proposed for CITES Appendix I.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which of the following statements is/are correct?

    1. IUCN is an organ of the United Nations and CITES is an international agreement between governments

    2. IUCN runs thousands of field projects around the world to better manage natural environments.

    3. CITES is legally binding on the States that have joined it, but this Convention does not take the place of national laws.

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Sharpening India’s anti-tuberculosis fight     

    Why in the News?

    In the present context, in India, there are groundbreaking new treatments available, but we need to rethink and update the program to eliminate TB.

    Current status of TB in India: 

    • Incidence Rate: As of 2022, the incidence rate of TB in India was reported at 199 cases per 100,000 population, a decline from 237 per lakh population in 2015. This reflects a 16% decrease in new TB cases since 2015.
    • Prevalence: The estimated prevalence of tuberculosis infection (TBI) among individuals over 15 years of age was around 31% according to a national survey conducted from 2019 to 2021. 
    • Global Contribution: India accounted for approximately 26% of the global incidence of TB cases in 2020. In that year, India also represented 38% of global TB deaths among HIV-negative individuals.
    • Mortality Rate: The mortality rate due to TB decreased from 28 per lakh population in 2015 to 23 per lakh population in 2022, indicating progress in managing the disease.
    • Total Cases: Estimates suggest that the total number of TB cases in India has increased from 2.2 million to 2.6 million in recent years, reflecting ongoing challenges in detection and treatment.

    What were the problems with previous Extended Treatment Regimen?

    • Lengthy and Complex: Traditional TB treatment regimens are long and require patients to take 13 to 14 tablets daily for 9 to 11 months, or 4 to 5 tablets daily for 18 to 24 months.
    • Severe Side Effects: These regimens are physically and psychologically draining, causing side effects like loss of hearing and psychosis.
    • Economic Impact: Prolonged treatment leads to loss of employment and drives many families into poverty due to the need for frequent clinic visits.

    WHO-Recommended Effective Regimen:

    • BPaL/M Regimen: WHO has recommended a shorter, safer, and more effective regimen called BPaL/M for drug-resistant TB patients.
    • Advantages: This regimen requires only 3 to 4 tablets daily for six months, with fewer side effects and higher success rates (89% compared to 68% for traditional treatments).
      • Close to 80 countries have procured the BPaL/M regimen, and 20 high-burden countries are already rolling it out.

     

    Present TB Elimination Policy in India:

    • The deficiency in the NTP was identified in 1963 and the Revised National TB Control Programme was developed.
    • Presently, India’s National TB Elimination Programme 2023 is leading the effort to meet the goal of eliminating TB by 2025, five years ahead of the SDGs.
    • Ending the TB epidemic by 2030 is among the health targets of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

    How India can make the best use of new treatments?

    • Proactive Screening and Diagnosis: Focus on modernizing health datasets, GIS mapping, and conducting targeted multi-disease screening drives, especially in vulnerable populations (e.g., those with comorbidities, slum dwellers, and prisoners).
    • Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Expand the use of portable X-ray machines with AI-driven tools and rapid molecular tests for faster and more accurate detection and drug resistance profiling.
    • Early Detection and Treatment: Leveraging new technologies and proactive measures will help improve TB detection rates, reduce delays, and enhance treatment outcomes, ultimately aiding in the elimination of TB in India.

    Conclusion: India need to invest in advanced diagnostic tools like AI-driven portable X-ray machines and rapid molecular tests to ensure early and accurate detection of TB, particularly in high-risk and underserved populations, to support timely treatment and reduce TB incidence.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. (UPSC IAS/2014)