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GS Paper: GS3-15.Science and Technology- Developments and their Applications and Effects in Everyday Life.

  • A look at ongoing Indian Space Missions

    Why in the News?

    Since Chandrayaan 3’s successful moon landing on August 23, 2023 and its declaration of National Space Day, ISRO has remained highly active with several key missions, despite a quieter phase at Sriharikota.

    Key Missions and Milestones:

    Details Date
    Chandrayaan 3
    • Successful Moon landing by Vikram lander.
    • August 23 declared as India’s National Space Day.
    		 August 23, 2023
    Aditya L1
    • Solar science mission to study the Sun.
    • Reached Earth-Sun L1 point on January 6, 2024.
    • Studied solar storm in May 2024.
    		 Launched: September 2, 2023
    L1 Orbit: January 6, 2024
    Gaganyaan TV-D1
    • First abort mission for Gaganyaan program.
    • Tested Crew Escape System (CES); crew module recovered by INS Shakthi.
    		 October 21, 2023
    XPoSat
    • X-ray Polarimeter Satellite to study radiation polarization.
    • Second such space observatory after NASA’s IPEX.
    		 Launched: January 1, 2024
    INSAT-3DS
    • Meteorological satellite launched to support GSLV credibility for NISAR mission.
    • Enhances weather forecasting capabilities.
    		 Launched: February 17, 2024
    RLV-TD (Pushpak)
    • Reusable Launch Vehicle tests (LEX-02 and LEX-03) conducted.
    • Simulated landing conditions for future Orbital Return Flight.
    		 LEX-02: March 22, 2024
    LEX-03: June 7, 2024
    SSLV
    • Final development flight of Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
    • Successfully placed EOS-08 and SR-0 Demosat in orbit.
    		 August 16, 2024
    ISRO Roadmaps
    • 25-year roadmap until 2047.
    • Plans for crewed lunar missions, sample-return missions, and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035.
    		 Announced: December 2023
    Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV)
      • New 3-stage launch vehicle under development to replace GSLV.
    • Powered by semi-cryogenic, liquid, and cryogenic engines.
    • Project report submitted to Union Cabinet.
    		 Project report submitted: February 2024
    NSIL Missions
    • Agreement with SpaceX for GSAT-20/GSAT-N2 launch.
    • SSLV launch service agreement with an Australian company.
    		 2024
    Private Space Missions
    • Agnikul Cosmos launched SoRTeD-01, first semi-cryogenic engine vehicle from Indian soil.
    • Skyroot and Dhruva Space progressing with tests and launches.
    		 2024
    IN-SPACe Initiatives
    • Released ‘Norms, Guidelines, and Procedures for Authorisation of Space Activities’.
    • Granted first satellite broadband license to Eutelsat
    • OneWeb and first ground station service license to Dhruva Space.
    • 100 % Direct FDI policy.
    		 2024

  • In an electric vehicle, what is Regenerative Braking?

    Why in the News?

    The Regenerative Braking device market is set to witness immense growth during the period 2024-2031 due to rise in prominence of e-vehicles.

    What is Regenerative Braking? 

    Regenerative braking is a technology used in electric and hybrid vehicles to capture and reuse energy that would otherwise be lost during braking.

    How Does It Work?

    1. Normal Braking: In a traditional vehicle, when you brake, the car’s kinetic energy (the energy it has while moving) is turned into heat and wasted.
    2. Regenerative Braking: 
    • In cars with regenerative braking, when you press the brake pedal, the electric motor runs in reverse.
    • This reverse action slows down the car, just like traditional brakes.
    • Instead of converting kinetic energy into heat, the motor converts it back into electrical energy.
    • This electrical energy is then stored in the vehicle’s battery for later use.
    1. Energy Conversion: This reversed motor converts the kinetic energy of the moving car into electrical energy.
    2. Energy Storage: The electrical energy produced is sent back to the car’s battery and stored for future use, such as powering the vehicle or running electrical systems.

    Significance:

    • Energy Efficiency: Saves energy by reusing it, reducing the need for frequent battery recharges.
    • Extended Range: Helps electric and hybrid vehicles travel further on a single charge.
    • Less Wear and Tear: Reduces wear on traditional brake components, leading to lower maintenance costs.

    Example: Imagine riding a bicycle down a hill. Normally, if you press the brakes, you slow down and the energy goes away as heat. But if you could somehow capture that energy and use it to help you pedal back up the hill, that would be similar to what regenerative braking does in a car.

     

    How does a Motor become a Generator?

    • A motor consists of a rotor (which rotates) and a stator (which is stationary). 
      • The stator contains magnets or electromagnets, while the rotor has current-carrying coils.
    • The Lorentz Force acts on the charged particles in the magnetic field, causing the rotor to spin.
    • In a generator, mechanical energy induces a current in the stator EVs can implement regenerative braking by switching the traction motor between these configurations.

    Downsides of Regenerative Braking

    • Regenerative braking alone often cannot bring a vehicle to a complete stop and must be supplemented by conventional braking systems.
    • Regenerative brakes may not prevent vehicles from backsliding downhill.
    • The efficiency of energy recovery drops as the vehicle’s speed decreases, though regenerative brakes are beneficial in stop-start traffic.

    Other Ways to Recover Energy

    • The design of a regenerative brake depends on the form of energy conversion. EVs convert mechanical energy into electrical energy stored in batteries or supercapacitors.
    • Flywheels can store mechanical energy by increasing angular momentum, useful in applications like Formula One racing and satellite navigation.
    • Kinetic energy can also be used to compress air, which can be useful for starting internal combustion engines.
    PYQ:

    [2021] Magnetite particles, suspected to cause neurodegenerative problems, are generated as environmental pollutants from which of the following?​

    1. Brakes of motor vehicles​

    2. Engines of motor vehicles​

    3. Microwave stoves within homes​

    4. Power plants​

    5. Telephone line​

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.​

    a)1, 2, 3 and 5 only​

    b)1, 2 and 4 only​

    c)3, 4 and 5 only​

    d)1, 2, 3, 4 and 5​

     

  • The ANRF plan has got off on the wrong foot  

    Why in the News? 

    In 2023, the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) Bill was passed by both Houses of Parliament, heralding a significant new initiative aimed at promoting and advancing research in India, particularly within the country’s universities and colleges.

    About 2019 National Research Foundation (NRF) Project Report

    • Objective: The 2019 NRF project report emphasized the goal of seeding, growing, and facilitating research in India, particularly within universities and colleges.
    • Aim: The project aimed to create an environment where research could thrive free from bureaucratic constraints, providing a funding boost and fostering collaboration with industry partners.
    • Scope and Structure: NRF will have five major divisions: Sciences, Technology, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts
    • Priority: A top priority mentioned in the report was “growing outstanding research cells already existing at State Universities.”

     

    Lack of Industry Representation in India:

    • Governing Bodies Composition: The ANRF Governing Board and Executive Council lack representation from key organizations, such as Central and State universities or colleges.
    • Current Members: Members primarily include Secretaries from various government science departments, directors of top research institutions, and international figures, but not from Indian industry or local academia.
    • Industry and Academia Input: There is a critical need for representatives who understand the practical challenges and bottlenecks of the current university system and have ground-level experience.
    • Diversity Issues: There is minimal representation from the industry and a lack of diversity, with the sole industry representative being an Indian-American based in Silicon Valley and the only woman representative being the Secretary of the DSIR.

    R&D underfunding:

    • Current Funding Levels: India significantly underfunds research and development, allocating less than 1% of GDP to R&D. There is a pressing need to increase this to at least 4% to make Indian innovation globally competitive.
    • Systemic Overhaul: The current funding system requires a significant overhaul to boost research. This includes implementing a robust grant management system, ensuring timely disbursal of funds, and minimizing bureaucratic hurdles at both the funding body and grantee institutions.
    • Grant and Fellowship Disbursal: Timely disbursal of research grants and student fellowships is crucial. The aim should be a quick turnaround time of less than six months between application and fund disbursal to maintain the momentum of research activities.
    • Flexibility in Spending: Researchers need flexibility in spending research funds. The current system’s stringent general financial rules (GFR) and the requirement to use the Government e-marketplace (GeM) portal can hinder efficient resource utilization.
    • Diverse and Competent Leadership: The ANRF should be staffed with diverse representatives from practising natural and social scientists, young entrepreneurs, and women.

    Other steps taken by the Government: 

    • Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): It is a flagship initiative to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. It aims to create an ecosystem for innovation and provide support to startups through incubators, accelerators, and mentorship programs.
    • Impacting Research Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT) Program: IMPRINT is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Science and Technology to promote translational research.
    • Uchhatar Avishkar Yojana (UAY): UAY is a scheme to promote industry-specific need-based research in premier institutions.

     

    Conclusion: The ANRF should actively involve representatives from both Indian industry and academia in its Governing Board and Executive Council. This inclusion will ensure that decision-making processes are informed by practical insights and ground-level experiences.

    Mains PYQ: 

    Q  Scientific research in Indian universities is declining, because a career in science is not as attractive as are business professions, engineering or administration, and the universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • Nematocysts in Aquatic Ecosystems

    Central Idea

    • Evolution has crafted unique defense mechanisms in the animal kingdom, one of which is the nematocyst.

    Understanding Nematocysts

    • Structural Composition: A nematocyst comprises a capsule with a coiled tubule and a toxin-filled bulbous structure.
    • Rapid Deployment: Upon stimulation, the nematocyst ejects its tubule at an incredibly high acceleration, comparable to a bullet’s speed.
    • Fastest Biological Mechanisms: This ejection process is among the quickest in the animal kingdom.
    • Found in: Nematocysts are particularly prevalent in jellyfish, corals, sea anemones, and hydras, serving as effective tools for hunting and protection.

    Role in Cnidarians’ Survival

    • Cnidarians and Cnidocytes: Cnidarians, a group of animals characterized by cnidocytes (specialized cells), heavily rely on nematocysts for feeding and defense.
    • Activation Process: Contact with potential prey triggers sensory structures on cnidocytes, leading to the nematocyst’s release and subsequent prey immobilization or toxin injection.

    Diversity of Toxins in Nematocysts

    • Variety of Effects: Nematocyst toxins can be paralytic, halting prey movement, or cytolytic, breaking down cells.
    • Strategic Use: Cnidarians often employ a mix of toxins to enhance the effectiveness of their predatory and defensive actions.
    • Contribution to Cnidarians’ Success: The complexity and efficiency of nematocysts play a vital role in the survival and dominance of cnidarians in aquatic habitats.
    • Formidable Aquatic Predators: The presence of nematocysts makes cnidarians formidable entities in their ecosystems.

  • Patent exclusions — Madras High Court shows the way

    Draft Patent Amendment Rules Undermine Pre-grant Opposition

    Central idea 

    Madras High Court’s recent rulings on pharmaceutical patents clarify Section 3(e) and Section 3(i) exclusions, emphasizing evidence and contextual analysis for patent eligibility. The decisions highlight the necessity of bright-line rules for consistency in patent office decisions and suggest a legislative role in addressing gaps in pharmaceutical patent issues.

    Key Highlights:

    • Recent Madras High Court judgments by Justice Senthilkumar Ramamoorthy bring clarity to pharmaceutical patent exclusions in the Indian context.
    • The first case, Novozymes vs Assistant Controller of Patents, interprets Section 3(e), excluding compositions that are mere aggregations. The court specifies that known aggregates can still be patent-eligible if individual components meet patent criteria.
    • The second case, Hong Kong and Shanghai University vs Assistant Controller of Patents, deals with Section 3(i), excluding inventions related to the treatment of humans or animals. The court provides insights into the types of diagnoses excluded under this provision.

    Key Challenges:

    • Lack of bright-line rules in the interpretation of patent exclusions, leaving room for ambiguity and varied decisions.
    • Balancing the interests of pharmaceutical innovation, public health, and preventing overbroad monopolies poses a challenge for the courts.
    • The need for more legislative clarity on exclusions, with suggestions for in vitro process considerations and potential compulsory licensing.

    Key Terms and Phrases:

    • Section 3(e): Exclusion related to compositions that amount to a mere aggregation of components.
    • Section 3(i): Exclusion pertaining to inventions involving processes for the treatment of humans or animals.
    • Bright-line rules: Clear and specific guidelines for interpreting patent exclusions, ensuring consistency in decision-making.

    Key Quotes and Statements:

    • “Bright-line rules are very critical in the realm of pharmaceutical patents to provide consistency and certainty in decision-making.”
    • “The court’s insistence on producing evidence to demonstrate the synergistic properties of compositions is a welcome move for clarifying the scope of Section 3(e).”
    • “Courts need to be conscious of competing interests in pharmaceutical and medical patents, finding a robust balance point for all parties.”

    Way Forward:

    • Advocate for the formulation of bright-line rules to simplify decision-making in the Indian Patent Office.
    • Encourage legislative consideration for in vitro processes, accompanied by provisions for compulsory licensing.
    • Emphasize the importance of courts balancing socio-economic conditions and public health concerns in interpreting patent law provisions.

  • Langlands Program: Making Complex Math Connections Easier to Understand

    Central Idea

    • Robert Langlands, a mathematician famous for his “Langlands Program,” has shifted his focus to Turkish literature in his later years.
    • This program is about finding deep links between two areas of math: number theory (the study of numbers) and harmonic analysis (a type of math that breaks down functions or signals into simpler parts).

    Langlands Program: A Journey to Connect Different Math Areas

    • Beginning: In 1967, Robert Langlands, a young mathematician at Princeton, started this journey with a letter to another mathematician, Andre Weil, sharing some groundbreaking ideas.
    • Complex Ideas: The program is full of complicated ideas that are hard for even experts to fully understand.
    • Goal: It aims to connect number theory and harmonic analysis, two areas of math that don’t seem related at first.

    The Purpose of the Program

    • Abel’s Discovery: In 1824, Niels Henrik Abel showed that it’s impossible to find a one-size-fits-all solution for certain math equations (polynomial equations) beyond a certain complexity.
    • Galois’s Approach: Evariste Galois, who didn’t know about Abel’s work, suggested looking at patterns (symmetries) in the solutions of these equations instead of trying to solve them directly.
    • Galois Groups: These are groups that show the patterns in the solutions of these equations and are key to the Langlands Program.
    • Linking Ideas: The program tries to connect these Galois groups with something called automorphic functions, which would allow using calculus (a branch of math) to explore these equations, connecting harmonic analysis and number theory.

    Automorphic Functions: Connecting Different Areas of Math

    • Example of Automorphic Function: Think of functions that have a repeating pattern, like the way sine functions in trigonometry work.
    • Special Symmetry: Automorphic functions have a unique property where they remain the same even after certain transformations, showing a special kind of symmetry.
    • Role in Langlands Program: The program’s goal is to link these special functions with Galois groups, leading to new ways of understanding and solving math problems.

    Impact of the Program

    • Solving an Old Puzzle: In 1994, Andrew Wiles and Richard Taylor used ideas from the Langlands Program to solve Fermat’s Last Theorem, a famous and old math problem.
    • Creating New Functions: This program helps in making new types of automorphic functions, which could help solve other complex math problems, like the Ramanujan conjectures.
    • Geometric Langlands: This is a branch of the Langlands Program that looks at connections between different fields like algebraic geometry, representation theory, and even physics.
    • Math and Physics Connection: Recent studies suggest that this program might help in understanding things in physics, like the study of electromagnetic waves.

  • Genetics of Silk Moth Domestication

    silk

    Central Idea

    • Silk, often hailed as the queen of fibers, boasts a rich and diverse history, with roots stretching back over 5,000 years to ancient China.
    • Its story encompasses the transition from the wild silk moth (Bombyx mandarina) to the domesticated silk moth (Bombyx mori), offering a fascinating glimpse into human ingenuity and nature’s adaptability.

    Silk Moth Domestication

    • Ancient Beginnings: Humans began domesticating silk moths from the wild Bombyx mandarina in China, marking the dawn of sericulture.
    • Global Reach: The domesticated Bombyx mori moth, significantly larger than its wild ancestor, now thrives worldwide, including in India.
    • Silk Powerhouse: India’s prowess in silk production makes it the second-largest raw silk producer globally, after China.

    Silkworms and Mulberry Leaves

    • Exclusive Diet: Caterpillars, known as silkworms, feed solely on the leaves of mulberry plants (genus Morus).
    • Cocoon Construction: The domesticated silk moth extrudes silk fibers of remarkable length, up to 900 meters, to construct larger cocoons. These caterpillars have lost the ability to fly and their pigmentation, adapting to human care.

    Diversity in Silk

    • Wild Silk Varieties: “Wild” silks, including muga, tasar, and eri, are derived from various moth species such as Antheraea assama, Antheraea mylitta, and Samia cynthia ricini.
    • Contrasting Characteristics: Non-mulberry silks differ significantly from mulberry silks, featuring shorter, coarser, and harder threads.

    The Enigmatic Cocoon Colors

    • Natural Variations: Domesticated silk moth cocoons come in a stunning array of colors, including yellow-red, gold, flesh, pink, pale green, deep green, and white.
    • Human Influence: Selective breeding for differently colored cocoons aimed to create colored silks, but these pigments are water-soluble, eventually fading. Acid dyes are used to achieve colored silks in the market.
    • Origins of Pigments: Pigments in cocoons are derived from carotenoids and flavonoids produced by mulberry leaves. Silkworms ingest these chemicals, which are then bound to silk proteins and spun into a single fiber.

    Mutant Strains and Genetic Insights

    • Valuable Resource: Mutant strains of silk moths have emerged due to mutations in genes governing pigment uptake, transport, and modification.
    • Diversity from Domestication: Silk domestication’s molecular basis has been primarily explored in China and Japan, with notable contributions from Indian scientists.

    Decoding Cocoon Colors: A Model Emerges

    • Genetic Factors: Researchers at Southwest University in Chongqing, China, proposed a model explaining how different mutations create diverse cocoon colors.
    • Key Genes: Genes like Y, C, F, Rc, and Pk play roles in pigment transportation and absorption, leading to variations in cocoon colors.
    • Green Cocoon Mystery: Mutations in the Y gene result in green cocoons when carotenoids are not absorbed, but flavonoids are. The intensity of green depends on other genes’ mutations, affecting flavonoid uptake.
    • Flavonoid Cluster: A cluster of closely related genes influences flavonoid uptake in cocoons.

    Gene Manipulation and Domestication

    • Hybrid Offspring: Researchers have created hybrid moths by interbreeding domesticated and ancestral silk moths.
    • Apontic-like Gene: Mutations in the apontic-like gene revealed differences in melanin production between domesticated and wild silk moths.
    • Regulatory Sequences: Variations in gene regulation sequences dictate when and where genes are activated or deactivated.

  • Don’t ignore the threat of antimicrobial resistance

    Central idea

    The article highlights challenges in combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), citing an implementation gap in National Action Plans. It calls for global collaboration, emphasizing regional plans, international funding, and patent reforms. Key data underscores the urgency, especially in G20 nations, where coordinated efforts are crucial to address the significant toll of AMR-related deaths.

    What is antimicrobial resistance?

    Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is when germs like bacteria and viruses become strong and don’t respond to medicines, making the medicines not work well. This is a big problem because it makes it hard to treat infections, and the resistant germs can spread. We need to work together to make sure our medicines keep working against these germs.

    Key Highlights:

    • Delhi Declaration Commitments: The G20, including India, pledged to strengthen global health systems, implement the One Health approach, and prioritize tackling Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) through research and development (R&D).
    • AMR’s Global Impact: A Lancet report revealed that AMR caused 4.95 million deaths globally, comparable to HIV and malaria. Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia faced the highest death rates.
    • G20’s Significance: G20 countries, housing over 60% of the world’s population, address AMR’s threat. Africa, now part of the coalition, adds complexity due to lower investments in healthcare infrastructure.

    Challenges and Concerns:

    • Implementation Gap: Despite comprehensive National Action Plans (NAPs), the efficacy varies, hindering the global effort against AMR.
    • Global Disparities: Low and middle-income countries, especially in Africa, face challenges in dealing with AMR due to limited healthcare infrastructure investments.

    Analysis:

    • Global Collaboration Needed: The success of the Delhi Declaration requires global and local efforts. Prioritizing regional AMR action plans, international funding for R&D, and patent reforms are crucial.
    • Local-Level Action: Effective implementation of NAPs, strengthening surveillance, and promoting responsible antibiotic use are imperative. India’s existing initiatives like Free Diagnostic Services and Kayakalp can play a pivotal role.

    Key Data and Facts:

    • AMR’s Toll: Lancet’s 2021 report associates 1.27 million deaths directly with bacterial AMR, with Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia facing the highest death rates.
    • G20’s Population Impact: G20 countries house over 60% of the world’s population, making their commitment crucial in tackling AMR globally.

    Way Forward:

    • Regional Action Plans: G20 countries should collaborate with developing nations to create regional AMR action plans, enhancing global coordination.
    • International Funding Mechanism: Advocating for an international funding mechanism focusing on AMR R&D is vital to address global disparities.
    • Patent Reforms: G20 nations should consider promoting patent reforms to foster innovation and ensure affordability in new antibiotics, learning from models like the Medicines Patent Pool.
    • Local-Level Prioritization: Countries need to prioritize NAP implementation, expand monitoring networks, and promote responsible behavior to combat AMR effectively.

  • C Raja Mohan writes: London Summit and how to make AI responsible

    Central idea

    The London summit on Artificial Intelligence underscores a global commitment to addressing the technology’s promises and dangers, led by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Focused on AI safety, historical ties to Bletchley Park, and a strategic institute announcement, the summit marks a pivotal moment for international collaboration, aiming to navigate challenges while ensuring the responsible and inclusive use of AI.

    Key Highlights:

    • Global Gathering: The London summit serves as a global congregation, bringing together leaders, including the US Vice President and tech industry bigwigs, emphasizing the importance placed on AI governance at an international level.
    • British Leadership: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak aims to position the UK as a leader in AI governance, echoing the historical significance of Bletchley Park, where early AI research by Alan Turing took place during World War II.
    • Safety Focus: The summit centers on ensuring the safe utilization of AI, acknowledging its potential benefits while recognizing the inherent risks, marking a pivotal moment in addressing the safety concerns associated with AI.
    • AI Safety Research Institute: The anticipated announcement of an AI Safety Research Institute underscores a commitment to understanding and evaluating the capabilities and risks of new AI models, reflecting a proactive approach to technological advancements.

    Challenges:

    • Striking a Balance: Finding the right balance between creating rules for AI and allowing room for innovation poses a tricky challenge, as too many rules can stifle the creativity and growth of the AI industry.
    • Ethical Quandaries: Figuring out the ethical aspects of AI governance, including issues like fairness, responsibility, and transparency, is a significant hurdle. It’s like navigating a complex maze of values and principles.
    • Differing Global Views: Dealing with the fact that countries see AI governance differently adds an extra layer of difficulty. It’s like trying to agree on a movie to watch when everyone has different preferences.
    • Defining “Frontier AI”: Deciding what falls under the category of “cutting-edge AI” is complicated. It’s like trying to decide which technologies are at the forefront and need special attention.
    • Public and Private Teamwork: Getting governments and big tech companies to work together is tough. It’s like trying to coordinate a group project where everyone has their own ideas and goals.

    Concerns:

    • Diverse Risks: The identified risks span from disinformation proliferation to the potential weaponization of knowledge for crafting chemical and biological weapons, emphasizing the multifaceted challenges AI governance must confront.
    • Global Inequalities in AI Expertise: Acknowledging the concentration of AI expertise in a select few companies and countries, the summit recognizes the potential exacerbation of global inequalities and digital divides.

    Analysis:

    • Global Landscape – Varied Approaches: The summit takes place against the backdrop of diverse global initiatives, including the US executive order on AI, the EU’s comprehensive regulatory framework, and China’s call for increased developing country representation in AI governance.
    • Financial Commitments Disparities: Discrepancies in financial contributions among nations and the absence of a standardized approach underscore the complexity of achieving cohesive global AI regulation.

    Key Data:

    • Limited Participation: With around 100 participants, including global leaders and tech industry figures, the summit aims to facilitate focused and in-depth discussions on AI governance.
    • China’s AI Principles: China’s outlined principles emphasize elevating the voice of developing countries and supporting UN discussions on establishing an international institution for AI governance.
    • EU Regulatory Framework: The EU’s discussions on the world’s first comprehensive framework for AI regulation highlight the ambitious goal of shaping rules across its member states.

    Key Terms:

    • AI Safety Research Institute: The proposed institute signifies a commitment to rigorously evaluate new AI models, offering insights into capabilities and associated risks.
    • Frontier AI: As a focal point of summit discussions, “frontier AI” encompasses deliberations on risks and the potential establishment of an international register for AI models.

    Way Forward:

    • Foundational Emphasis on AI Safety: The summit’s emphasis on AI safety lays a crucial foundation for addressing multifaceted challenges, fostering responsible AI development, and ensuring user safety.
    • International Cooperation Imperative: The ongoing need for international cooperation is underscored as nations grapple with harmonizing diverse approaches to AI governance, addressing disparities, and fostering a collective commitment to responsible AI development.
    • UN Advisory Body on AI: Initiatives like the UN advisory body on AI contribute to ongoing discussions, shaping the narrative on responsible AI development and accessibility in the global arena.

  • Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)

    Central Idea

    • CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) is spearheading a groundbreaking research endeavour called the “Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)”.
    • This integrated genomics and epigenomics study aims to unravel the genetic underpinnings of NCD’s prevalent in diverse populations, including South Asians.

    Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)

    • DEEP is an integrated genomics and epigenomics study focused on understanding the genetic factors behind Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in diverse populations, including South Asians.
    • The project spans five years.
    • It aims to uncover the impact of genomic and environmental diversity on disease risk observed in people worldwide, including those in Asia, Africa, North America, and South America.
    • It will study individuals from various genetic and environmental contexts to identify DNA methylation patterns contributing to disease risk in each context.
    • It will develop software, infrastructure, and conduct advanced statistical analyses to create new resources.
    • This will complement international health and genetics databases and examine trends in DNA methylation variation.

    DNA Methylation

    • DNA methylation is a process in which chemical groups attach to DNA, regulating the activation and deactivation of genes.
    • This epigenetic modification helps the body respond to environmental signals and contributes to overall health and disease status.
    • Understanding the relationships between DNA methylation, genetics, and the environment is crucial for comprehending the pathways governing health, disease, and their consequences.

    Significance of this initiative

    • This research will enable the identification of disease-causing mechanisms that are common worldwide and those which are unique to particular groups or regions.
    • It will help with answering questions such as whether medicines developed in one part of the world will be effective for all.
    • Ultimately the DEEP study hopes to enable targeted interventions or treatments and reduce global health disparity and inequity.