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GS Paper: GS3

  • Krutrim AI: India’s indigenous AI

    Why in the news?

    Krutrim AI is Ola’s homegrown AI assistant, designed to cater to the diverse needs and nuances of Indian consumers, bridging the gap between conventional AI and specific cultural contexts.

    Krutrim’s Capabilities

    • Multilingual Support: Krutrim boasts the ability to converse in English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Marathi, Kannada, Bengali, Gujarati, and Hinglish, catering to the linguistic diversity of India.
    • Multi-Functionality: Users can leverage Krutrim for a range of tasks, including writing emails, seeking information, learning new skills, planning travel, discovering recipes, and more.

    Technology behind Krutrim AI

    • Sophisticated AI Model: Krutrim operates on a sophisticated AI model trained on vast datasets encompassing Indian languages, social contexts, and cultural references.
    • Natural Language Processing (NLP): Utilizes NLP to comprehend human language nuances, including colloquialisms and cultural contexts, enhancing user interactions.
    • Machine Learning (ML): ML algorithms enable Krutrim to learn from datasets, continuously improving responses and understanding user intent.
    • Deep Learning: Leverages Deep Learning to recognize patterns and analyze complex data, crucial for contextual responses and performance enhancement.

    Applications and Benefits for Users

    • Enhanced User Experience: Krutrim AI enhances user experiences across various sectors by offering culturally sensitive interactions, personalized learning in education, and automating administrative tasks.
    • Support for Content Creators: Content creators can leverage Krutrim for ideation and localization, making content more relatable and engaging.
    • Automating Repetitive Tasks: Krutrim’s capabilities extend to automating repetitive administrative tasks across industries, boosting efficiency and productivity.

    PYQ:

    2018: When the alarm of your smartphone rings in the morning, you wake up and tap it to stop the alarm which causes your geyser to be switched on automatically. The smart minor in your bathroom shows the day’s weather and also indicates the level of water in your overhead tank. After you take some groceries from your refrigerator for making breakfast, it recognises the shortage of stock in it and places an order for the supply of fresh grocery items. When you step out of your house and lock the door, all lights, fans, geysers and AC machines get switched off automatically. On your way to office, your car warns you about traffic congestion ahead and suggests an alternative route, and if you are late for a meeting, it sends a- message to your office accordingly.

    In the context of emerging communication technologies, which one of the following term” best applies to the above scenario?

    1. Border Gateway Protocol
    2. Internet of Things
    3. Internet Protocol
    4. Virtual Private Network

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about the ‘Krutrim AI’:

    1. It is a homegrown AI assistant developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DACs).
    2. It can converse in regional languages of India.

    Which of the given statements are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • North Atlantic Right Whales: Threats and Conservation Imperatives

    Why in the news?

    • North Atlantic right whales face a grave threat due to entanglement in fishing gear, contributing to their critically endangered status.
    • Entanglement not only leads to physical harm but also affects reproductive success, exacerbating the species’ decline.

    Impact of Entanglement

    • Lethal and Sublethal Effects: Entanglement in fishing gear leads to energy expenditure, reduced feeding efficiency, and physical injuries, ultimately impacting whales’ ability to reproduce and survive. Even minor entanglements have devastating consequences on female right whales.
    • Reproductive Implications: Females experiencing entanglement events, even classified as “minor,” exhibit reduced breeding rates, with potential long-term consequences for population recovery. Poor health and physical condition further impede breeding success.

    About Right Whales

    • Right whales are a group of large baleen whales belonging to the family Balaenidae.
    • There are three species of right whales:
    1. North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis),
    2. North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica), and
    3. Southern right whale (Eubalaena australis).
    • They are distinguished by their geographic distribution and slight differences in physical characteristics.
    • Right whales inhabit temperate and subpolar waters of the North Atlantic, North Pacific, and Southern Hemisphere.
    • They are often found in coastal areas during their feeding and breeding seasons but may migrate over long distances.
    • All three species of right whales are listed as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

    North Atlantic Right Whales

     

    • It is listed as Critically Endangered in the IUCN Red List.
    • Only around 360 individuals remain, with almost 90% having experienced entanglement at least once.

     

    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:

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 and 3 only
    3. 1 and 3 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The North Atlantic Right Whales were recently seen in news for a peculiar behaviour. Identify the correct statement about the North Atlantic Right Whales:

    1. Entanglement in fishing net has led to permanent loss of breeding capability.
    2. Extinct due to commercial hunting.
    3. Generates large amounts of Aspergis, an aromatic substance.
    4. In-situ breeding was successful.

  • SEBI’s directive on Overseas ETF Investments

    What is the news?

    SEBI has instructed mutual fund houses to halt new inflows into schemes investing in overseas exchange-traded funds (ETFs) from April 1, 2024.

    What are Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)?

    • ETFs are marketable securities that track various assets, including indices, commodities, or bonds, and trade on stock exchanges like regular stocks.
    • ETFs were started in 2001 in India.
    • Types of ETFs: Equity ETFs, bonds ETFs, commodity ETFs, international ETFs, and sectoral/thematic ETFs cater to diverse investment preferences.

    Market dynamics of ETFs

    • ETFs can be purchased or sold on a stock exchange in the same way that regular stocks can, unlike the mutual funds.
    • The traded price of an ETF changes throughout the day like any other stock, as it is bought and sold on the stock exchange.
    • The trading value of an ETF is based on the net asset value of the underlying stocks that it represents.
    • These funds offer higher liquidity, lower fees, and tax efficiency compared to traditional mutual funds, appealing to individual investors.

    Reasons behind SEBI’s Directive

    • Cap Proximity: The mutual fund industry has nearly reached 95% of the $1 billion investment limit in overseas ETFs, prompting SEBI’s intervention.
    • Temporary Measure: SEBI’s directive aims to temporarily curb inflows into these schemes until the investment limit is revised or additional measures are implemented.
    • Existing Caps: Currently, mutual funds are subject to an overall cap of $7 billion for investments in overseas stocks or mutual funds, with a specific limit of $1 billion for ETFs.

    PYQ:

    2013: The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies, resulting in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify.

    2020: With reference to Foreign Direct Investment in India, which one of the following is considered its major characteristic?

    1. It is the investment through capital instruments essentially in a listed company.
    2. It is a largely non-debt creating capital flow.
    3. It is the investment which involves debt-servicing.
    4. It is the investment made by foreign institutional investors in the Government securities.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    With reference to the Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), consider the following statements:

    1. ETFs are marketable securities that track various assets, including indices, commodities, or bonds, and trade on stock exchanges like regular stocks.
    2. ETFs were started in 2021 in India.
    3. ETFs can be purchased like the mutual funds.

    How many of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. One
    2. Two
    3. Three
    4. None

  • On the resurgence of Mumps in Kerala

    Why in the news? 

    Mumps, an acute viral infection that historically affects children, has been spreading like wildfire in Kerala, for the past few months.

    Context:

    • Despite being a vaccine-preventable disease, mumps has never been a part of the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) because of the disease’s no-mortality profile and the perception that it has low public health significance.
    • According to the World Health Organization (WHO), vaccination strategies targeting mumps control should be closely integrated with existing measles elimination and rubella control.

    About: Mumps is an airborne viral disease primarily affecting children and adolescents. It manifests with symptoms like fever, headache, and painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands on both sides of the face.

    Is it a cause for concern? 

    • Self-Limiting Disease: Mumps is described as a self-limiting disease, meaning it typically resolves on its own with rest and symptomatic management within about two weeks.
    • Underreporting: Due to approximately half of infected children developing classical symptoms and around 30% remaining asymptomatic, many cases of mumps go unreported. This suggests that reported cases are likely a significant underestimation of the actual prevalence in the community.
    • Public Health Perspective: Historically, measles has been prioritized in public health efforts due to its potential for severe morbidity and mortality, overshadowing the attention given to mumps.
    • Emerging Concerns: Despite being less prioritized, recent reports indicate a surge in mumps cases, including complications such as encephalitis, epilepsy, aseptic meningitis, and acute pancreatitis, particularly at Kozhikode Medical College hospital.
    • Impact on Reproductive Health: Mumps can affect the gonads (reproductive glands) in both males and females. In males, it poses the rare but significant risk of infertility or reduced sperm count in the long term.

    Why is the mumps vaccine not part of the national immunization schedule?

    • Lack of Mortality: Mumps typically does not result in fatalities, further contributing to the belief that it may not warrant inclusion in routine vaccination schedules.
    • Underestimation of Public Health Significance: Despite arguments from organizations like the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) that mumps’ public health significance is underestimated, there has been insufficient evidence or data to prompt its inclusion in national immunization programs.
    • Poor Documentation and Lack of Studies: Limited documentation of clinical cases, complications, and follow-up data, as well as a scarcity of published studies on mumps, have hindered efforts to fully understand its impact and advocate for its vaccine inclusion.
    • Absence of Nationally Representative Data: The lack of nationally representative data on the incidence of mumps in India makes it challenging to assess its burden accurately and advocate for vaccine inclusion based on epidemiological evidence.
    • Limited Information on Long-Term Morbidity: While mumps is known to have some impact on reproductive organs, there is very little information available on its actual long-term morbidity profile, further complicating decisions regarding vaccine inclusion.

    How can the current outbreaks be controlled?

    • Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate the community about mumps, its symptoms, transmission, and the importance of isolation. Emphasize the significance of vaccination and maintaining good hygiene practices.
    • Improve Immunization Coverage: Strengthen efforts to improve general immunization coverage, especially targeting unimmunized children and adolescents. Ensure accessibility to vaccination services in all communities.
    • Strict Isolation Measures: Enforce strict isolation measures for mumps patients for the full three-week duration to limit disease transmission. Provide clear guidelines to healthcare facilities and schools on managing mumps cases and preventing spread.
    • School Closure: Consider temporary closure of schools during outbreaks to prevent further transmission, especially if a significant number of cases are reported among students. Use the summer break as an opportunity to break the chain of transmission.
    • Enhanced Surveillance and Reporting: Implement robust surveillance systems to promptly detect and report mumps cases. Ensure healthcare providers are vigilant in diagnosing and reporting suspected cases to public health authorities for timely intervention.
    • Contact Tracing and Monitoring: Conduct thorough contact tracing of individuals who have been in close contact with confirmed mumps cases. Monitor them for symptoms and enforce isolation measures if necessary to prevent secondary transmission.
    • Healthcare Provider Training: Provide training to healthcare providers on mumps diagnosis, management, and reporting protocols. Ensure they are equipped to identify and manage cases effectively.
    • Community Engagement: Engage with community leaders, schools, and parents to encourage cooperation with control measures. Encourage individuals to seek medical care promptly if they develop symptoms suggestive of mumps.

    Way Forward:

    • Assessment of Vaccine Effectiveness: Despite the lack of studies on the effectiveness of the mumps vaccine in India, global data suggests that two doses of the MMR vaccine can provide protection ranging from 70% to 95%, provided that coverage is high.
    • Integration with Measles and Rubella Control: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends integrating mumps vaccination strategies with existing efforts for measles elimination and rubella control. This ensures a comprehensive approach to vaccine-preventable diseases.
    • Consideration of Regional Factors: Evaluate regional factors influencing vaccine effectiveness, disease burden, and immunization coverage. Tailor vaccination strategies accordingly to address the specific needs and challenges faced in Kerala.
    • Consultation with Experts and Stakeholders: Engage with public health experts, immunization specialists, and stakeholders to review the evidence, assess the impact of different vaccination strategies, and determine the most effective approach moving forward.
    • Monitoring and Surveillance: Strengthen monitoring and surveillance systems to track mumps cases, vaccine coverage, and vaccine effectiveness. This data will be crucial for evaluating the impact of vaccination strategies and making informed decisions.
    • Policy Decision: Based on the evidence and expert recommendations, make a policy decision regarding the inclusion of MMR vaccine in the Universal Immunization Programme. Consider factors such as vaccine availability, cost-effectiveness, and logistics.

    Conclusion: Addressing the resurgence of mumps in Kerala necessitates a comprehensive approach, including vaccination integration, public awareness, strict isolation measures, and policy review guided by expert consultation and regional considerations.

  • What are the rules for elephant transfers? | Explained

    Why in the news?

    The Centre has notified a set of rules called the Captive Elephant (Transfer or Transport) Rules, 2024 that liberalises the conditions under which elephants may be transferred within or between States.

    What are the rules around the transfer and transport of elephants?

    • Legal Protection: Elephants are classified as Schedule I species under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, prohibiting their capture or trade, whether wild or captive, except for specific purposes.
    • Special Purposes: Section 12 of the Act allows for the translocation of Schedule I animals for special purposes such as education, scientific research, wildlife population management, and specimen collection for recognized zoos/museums.
    • Ownership of Captive Elephants: Captive elephants, due to their historical roles in forest management, timber transport, and religious ceremonies, fall under a special category and can be owned. However, strict rules govern their transfer.
    • Permission Requirement: Section 40(2) of the Wildlife Protection Act mandates written permission from the Chief Wildlife Warden for the acquisition, possession, and transfer of captive elephants.
    • Amendment in 2021: In 2021, the Environment Ministry introduced an amendment allowing the transfer of elephants for “religious or any other purposes,” departing from the previous restriction against transactions of a commercial nature.
    • Controversy: The broad interpretation of the amendment raised concerns among activists and researchers regarding potential trafficking and illegal commercial transactions. Opposition from a standing committee, led by former Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh, was overruled, and the amendment was passed into law.

    What do the updated rules say?

    • Reasons for Transfer: New relaxations allow for the transfer of captive elephants when the current owner is unable to maintain them or when the Chief Wildlife Warden deems it necessary for better upkeep.
    • Approval Process: Before a transfer within the state, the elephant’s health must be verified by a veterinarian, and the Deputy Conservator of Forests must confirm the suitability of both the current and prospective habitats. The Chief Wildlife Warden decides whether to approve or reject the transfer based on these documents.
    • Interstate Transfer: Similar conditions apply if the transfer involves moving the elephant outside of a state. The elephant’s genetic profile must be registered with the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change.
    • Permission Process: Previously, transferring an elephant across states required permissions from the Chief Wildlife Wardens of every state the elephant would pass through. Now, only permissions from the originating and recipient states are necessary for interstate transfers.

    What do the updates mean?/ concerns about the Wildlife Protection Act and the establishment of private zoos 

    • Lax Enforcement for Elephants: While the Wildlife Protection Act imposes restrictions on trafficking of wild animals, including elephants, critics argue that enforcement has become lax, particularly in the case of elephants.
    • Establishment of Private Zoo: The establishment of India’s largest private zoo in Jamnagar, Gujarat, affiliated with the Reliance Foundation, has raised questions about the treatment and sourcing of elephants.
    • Purpose of the Zoo: While the zoo is described as a rescue center aimed at rehabilitating traumatized and injured elephants, among other wildlife, concerns have been raised about its actual operations.
    • Controversial Hosting: The zoo reportedly hosts around 200 elephants, including “healthy animals,” which has sparked controversy. Critics question the need to host healthy animals in a rescue center and raise doubts about the welfare and origins of these elephants.
    • Source of Elephants: There are concerns that some of the elephants in the zoo may have been sourced from the wild rather than being captive-bred or rescued. This raises ethical and conservation concerns about the impact on wild elephant populations.

    Conclusion: Address lax enforcement of wildlife protection laws for elephants. Ensure transparency in private zoo operations and strict adherence to ethical sourcing guidelines. Prioritize conservation efforts and welfare of captive and wild elephant populations.

    PYQ Mains-

    Q- How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the Biological Diversity Act,2002 helpful in conservation of flora and fauna? (250 Words, 15 Marks)

  • IAU approves ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ as name for Chandrayaan-3 Landing Site

    What is the news?

    The International Astronomical Union (IAU) working group for Planetary System Nomenclature recently sanctioned the name ‘Statio Shiv Shakti’ for the landing site of Chandrayaan-3’s Vikram lander, marking a significant milestone in planetary nomenclature.

    About International Astronomical Union (IAU)

    • The IAU was founded on July 28, 1919, during the Constitutive Assembly held in Brussels, Belgium.
    • Its creation was prompted by the need for international collaboration in astronomy, especially after the devastation caused by World War I.
    • It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
    • IAU is now headquartered in Paris, France.

    Major Activities and Initiatives

    • General Assembly: The IAU holds a general assembly every three years in varying parts of the world at which professional astronomers meet to discuss research, new cooperative ventures, and similar matters of professional interest.
    • Astronomical Nomenclature: IAU standardizes the nomenclature of celestial bodies, features, and phenomena. It maintains several working groups dedicated to naming conventions for stars, planets, asteroids, and other objects.
    • Research and Collaboration: It promotes international cooperation in astronomical research and supports initiatives such as observational campaigns, data sharing, and joint projects.
    • Education and Outreach: It is actively involved in promoting astronomy education and public outreach efforts worldwide. It supports educational programs, workshops, and resources for students, teachers, and the general public.

    Membership

    1. IAU membership spans 92 countries. Out of those countries, 85 are National Members.
    2. India is represented by the Astronomical Society of India (ASI).
    3. Its members are professional astronomers from all over the world, at the D. level and beyond, who are active in professional research, education, and outreach in astronomy.

    IAU Nomenclature  Criteria

     

    • Rule 4: It emphasizes the international nature of solar system nomenclature and encourages equitable representation of names from diverse ethnic groups, countries, and genders.
    • Rule 9: The IAU adheres to Rule 9, prohibiting names with political, military, or religious connotations, except for historical political figures prior to the 19th century.
    • Rule 11: It emphasizes that names should be unique within the context of celestial nomenclature to prevent confusion.

    About Statio Shiv Shakti’

    • Prime Minister announced the name ‘Shiv Shakti’ for the Chandrayaan-3 landing site in August, 2023, reflecting the significance of Indian mythology and cultural heritage.
    • It is located at the co-ordinates 69.373°S 32.319°E and lies between the lunar craters Manzinus C and Simpelius N.
    • The name ‘Shiv Shakti’ symbolizes the masculine-feminine duality of nature, embodying strength and resolution, with a profound connection to India’s diverse cultural landscape.

    PM previously named the Chandrayaan-2 crash site ‘Tiranga point’, while former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam suggested ‘Jawahar Point’ for the Chandrayaan-1 impact probe landing site, reflecting a tradition of honoring national figures and symbols.

     

    PYQ:

    2021: Which one of the following is a reason why astronomical distances are measured in light-years?​

    1. Distances among stellar bodies do not change.​
    2. Gravity of stellar bodies does not change.​
    3. Light always travels in straight line.​
    4. Speed of light is always same.​

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about International Astronomical Union (IAU):

    1. It aims for promoting and safeguarding astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
    2. India is represented by the ISRO in the IAU.

    Which of the given statements are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • Clinical Trials for MTBVAC Tuberculosis Vaccine in India

    What is the news?

    • Bharat Biotech, in collaboration with Spanish biopharmaceutical company Biofabri, has initiated clinical trials for the Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Vaccine (MTBVAC) in India, marking a significant milestone in TB vaccine development.
    • The only currently available TB vaccine, the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin vaccine (BCG), was developed 100 years ago and is less effective.

    About MTBVAC

    • MTBVAC is a unique TB vaccine based on a genetically modified form of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, containing all antigens present in human-infecting strains, unlike the BCG vaccine.
    • It is developed in the laboratory of the University of Zaragoza with contributions from Dr. Brigitte Gicquel of the Pasteur Institute, Paris.
    • MTBVAC is designed to offer superior and potentially longer-lasting protection compared to the BCG vaccine, particularly for newborns and in preventing TB in adults and adolescents.

    Objectives of Clinical Trials in India

    • Safety and Immunogenicity: The ongoing trials in India aim to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of MTBVAC, with plans for a pivotal Phase 3 trial in 2025.
    • Population Significance: Studying the vaccine’s efficacy in India, with its high TB burden, is crucial for advancing TB vaccine research and addressing the global TB epidemic.

    What is Tuberculosis?

    • Tuberculosis is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
    • Robert Koch discovered Mycobacterium tuberculosis which causes TB, and his discovery opened the way towards diagnosing and curing this disease.
    • It can practically affect any organ of the body.
    • The most common ones are lungs, pleura (lining around the lungs), lymph nodes, intestines, spine, and brain.

    Transmission:

    It is an airborne infection that spreads through close contact with the infected, especially in densely populated spaces with poor ventilation.

    Symptoms:

    Common symptoms of active lung TB are cough with sputum and blood at times, chest pains, weakness, weight loss, fever and night sweats.

    Treatment Facilities in India:

    • DOTS (Directly Observed Treatment, Short-Course) regimen: It is the recommended treatment approach for TB by the WHO. Patients receive a combination of four antibiotics: isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. These drugs are usually administered daily for the first two months of treatment, followed by a continuation phase with isoniazid and rifampicin for an additional four to seven months.
    • Nikshay Poshan Yojana (2018): It was launched to support every Tuberculosis (TB) Patient by providing a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of Rs 500 per month for nutritional needs.

    Issues in TB Treatment: Drug Resistance

    Drug resistance emerges when anti-TB medicines are used inappropriately, through incorrect prescription by health care providers, poor quality drugs, and patients stopping treatment prematurely.

    1. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB): Itis a form of TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to isoniazid and rifampicin, the 2 most powerful, first-line anti-TB drugs. MDR-TB is treatable and curable by using second-line drugs such as
    2. Extensively drug-resistant TB (XDR-TB): Itis a more serious form of MDR-TB caused by bacteria that do not respond to the most effective second-line anti-TB drugs, often leaving patients without any further treatment options.

     

    PYQ:

    2014: 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.

     

    Practice MCQ:

    With reference to the Tuberculosis (TB), consider the following statements:

    1. TB is an infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
    2. It only targets Lungs.
    3. Nikshay Poshan Yojana aims for TB support is essentially a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

    How many of the given statements is/are correct?

    1. One
    2. Two
    3. Three
    4. None

  • [pib] Project ANAGRANINF

    What is the news?

    • The Technology Development Board (TDB) has allocated a grant of ₹75 Lakhs for the project “ANAGRANINF – Development of a Novel Class of Antibiotics against Gram-Negative Bacterial-Infections,” totalling ₹1.5 crores.

    What is Project ANAGRANINF?

    • Project ANAGRANINF is titled “Development of a Novel Class of Antibiotics Against Gram-Negative Bacterial-Infections.”
    • It is a collaborative initiative involving M/s Peptris Technologies Pvt. Ltd. and the Foundation for Neglected Disease Research (FNDR) in India, along with ABAC THERAPEUTICS SL from Spain.
    • The primary objective of the project is-
    1. To develop a novel antibiotic capable of inhibiting the FabI enzyme and
    2. Combating critical gram-negative pathogens.
    • Project ANAGRANINF aims to produce a series of compounds with enhanced efficacy against gram-negative bacterial infections.
    • The project aims to identify a candidate molecule that meets WHO’s innovation criteria, ensuring a new chemical structure, no cross-resistance with existing antibiotic classes, and a novel mechanism of action.

    About the Candidate Molecule ‘MMV1578564’

    The selected hit molecule from the project, MMV1578564, has exhibited promising activity against gram-negative pathogens, providing a foundation for further research and development efforts.

    Back2Basics:

    1. Gram-Negative Bacteria:
      • Gram-negative bacteria have a thin peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall, which is located between the outer and inner membranes.
      • They stain pink or red when subjected to the Gram staining technique.
      • Gram-negative bacteria are generally more resistant to antibiotics due to the presence of an outer membrane that acts as a barrier against certain antibiotics.
      • Examples of gram-negative bacteria include Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
      • They are known to cause infections like pneumonia, bloodstream infections, wound infections, and meningitis in healthcare settings
    2. Gram-Positive Bacteria:
      • Gram-positive bacteria have a thick layer of peptidoglycan in their cell wall, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining technique.
      • They appear purple or blue under a microscope after staining.
      • Gram-positive bacteria are generally more susceptible to antibiotics because their thick peptidoglycan layer allows antibiotics to penetrate more easily.
      • Examples of gram-positive bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus subtilis, and Clostridium difficile.
      • Some examples of diseases caused by Gram-positive bacteria include anthrax, diphtheria, enterococcal infections, erysipelothricosis, and listeriosis.These bacteria can cause a range of infections from food poisoning to serious respiratory diseases and may require specific antibiotics for treatment.

     

    PYQ:

    2021: Consider the following:​

    1. Bacteria​
    2. Fungi​
    3. Virus​

    Which of the above can be cultured in artificial/synthetic medium?​

    1. 1 and 2 only ​
    2. 2 and 3 only​
    3. 1 and 3 only ​
    4. 1, 2 and 3​

     

    Practice MCQ:

    The recently launched Project ‘ANAGRANINF’ deals with:

    1. Agricultural Grant
    2. Artificial Intelligence
    3. Antibiotics Development
    4. None of these

  • ISRO successfully conducts ‘Pushpak’ Reusable Landing Vehicle Landing

    What is the news?

    • The ISRO has conducted the Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV) LEX 02 landing experiment at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga. It was lifted by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter and released from an altitude of 4.5 km.
    • This experiment marks a significant milestone in ISRO’s pursuit of reusable space technology.

    About Pushpak Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV)

    • The Pushpak RLV is a winged vehicle, equipped with aerodynamic surfaces that enable controlled flight during re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere.
    • The RLV is designed to autonomously land on a designated runway after completing its mission in space, thereby demonstrating India’s capability in autonomous space vehicle landing.
    • It is equipped with sophisticated navigation, control, and landing gear systems that allow it to autonomously navigate and land on a predefined runway.

    Key Features

    1. The RLV is a space plane with a low lift-to-drag ratio, requiring an approach at high glide angles that necessitates landing at high velocities of 350 km/h.
    2. This design allows it to transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth for future use.

    Future Prospects

    • Iterative Testing: ISRO conducts a series of experiments, such as the RLV LEX 02 landing experiment, to test and validate the performance of the RLV in various scenarios.
    • Orbital Re-entry Missions: The successful demonstration of the Pushpak RLV’s capabilities paves the way for future orbital re-entry missions, where reusable vehicles can be deployed for various scientific and commercial purposes.

    PYQ:

    2018: With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements:

    1. PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites.
    2. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth.
    3. GSLV Mk III is a four-stage launch l vehicle with the first and third stages l using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 and 3
    3. 1 and 2
    4. 3 only

     

    Practice MCQ:

    Consider the following statements about the ‘Pushpak’ Reusable Landing Vehicle (RLV):

    1. It is a winged vehicle.
    2. It can transport payloads to Low Earth orbits and return to Earth with the help of a parachute.

    Which of the given statements are correct?

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2

  • A turf war with the wild

    Why in the news?

    • Instances of human-animal conflict are on the rise in Kerala with the summer heat, scarcity of food, and loss of habitat forcing wild animals to stray into human habitations for sustenance.

    Context-

    • Vulnerability of tribal communities living in such areas. While they have intricate knowledge of the forest and its resources, they lack the protective measures and resources available to more urbanized populations, leaving them more susceptible to the dangers of wildlife encounters.

    Human-animal conflict in Kerala-

    • Surge in Incidents: Kerala has experienced a significant increase in human-animal conflict incidents across its districts, attributed to the state’s significant forest cover and densely populated settlements near wildlife habitats.
    • Human Casualties: Human-wildlife conflicts have resulted in a substantial loss of human lives, with 93 reported deaths in 2023-24. The previous year recorded 98 human casualties.
    • Hotspot District: Wayanad stands out as a hotspot for human-animal conflicts, with 69 reported deaths between 2011 and 2024. Incidents involve encounters with wild elephants and, in one case, a tiger attack.
    • Diverse Wildlife Involved: Human-animal conflicts in Kerala involve various species, including elephants, tigers, leopards, bears, wild gaurs, wild boars, and monkeys. This diversity underscores the complexity of managing conflicts across different ecosystems and habitats.
    • Impact on Livelihoods: The conflicts have severe repercussions on people’s livelihoods, particularly those dependent on agriculture and farming. Attacks by wild animals prevent farmers from cultivating their land, leading to economic hardship and food insecurity.
    • Vulnerable Communities: Vulnerable communities like tribal groups and small-scale farmers are disproportionately affected by human-animal conflicts. Limited resources and infrastructure exacerbate their vulnerability to wildlife attacks, as seen in the case of Abraham Palatt and his family.

    Steps taken by Government to deal these issues – 

    • State-Specific Disaster: The Kerala government declared human-animal conflict as a state-specific disaster in March, becoming the first state to do so. This decision signifies the severity and urgency of addressing the issue.
    • Responsibility Shift: Management of human-animal conflicts now falls under the purview of the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA), with a committee headed by the Chief Minister established for this purpose.
    • Community Involvement: The government plans to involve local communities through neighborhood groups to enhance surveillance on forest fringes. These groups will collaborate with government agencies and elected representatives to disseminate alerts about wildlife presence.
    • Recruitment and Equipment: The government aims to strengthen surveillance by recruiting more forest watchers and establishing rapid response teams equipped with firearms, surveillance devices, drones, tranquilizing guns, and advance warning systems.
    • Inter-State Collaboration: An inter-State coordination committee involving the Forest departments of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu has been formed to address human-wildlife conflicts collectively. This initiative aims to share intelligence and resources to mitigate conflicts, particularly along interstate borders.

    Measures to address human-wildlife conflict-

    • Forest Quality Improvement: Improving the quality of forests through measures such as reducing fragmentation and patchiness can help create healthier ecosystems that support a more balanced coexistence between humans and wildlife.
    • Conservation Mission with Tribal Communities: Involving tribal communities in conservation efforts ensures their participation and traditional knowledge is valued. Collaborative conservation initiatives can promote sustainable practices and protect both biodiversity and livelihoods.
    • Rejuvenation of Natural Forest Streams: Restoring natural water sources in forests is crucial for wildlife habitat and can help mitigate conflicts by providing essential resources within their natural environment.
    • Removal of Invasive Plants and Replanting Indigenous Species: Removing invasive plant species and replanting indigenous ones can restore ecological balance and support native wildlife populations, reducing their reliance on human-impacted areas.
    • Utilization of MGNREGS: Leveraging government schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) to support conservation efforts can provide employment opportunities while simultaneously contributing to environmental restoration projects.
    • Awareness Programs on Responsible Tourism: Educating tourists about responsible behavior around wildlife can minimize human-wildlife conflicts caused by human disturbance. This includes emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe distance and respecting wildlife habitats.
    • Effective Institutional Framework: Establishing a robust institutional framework at various levels of governance, from local to inter-state, is essential for coordinated action in managing human-wildlife conflicts. This involves collaboration between different government departments, wildlife authorities, and local communities.

    Conclusion-

    Human-wildlife conflicts surge in Kerala, endangering lives and livelihoods. Government initiatives, community involvement, and conservation efforts are crucial for mitigating conflicts and fostering coexistence, ensuring a sustainable future for both humans and wildlife.