Archives: News

Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

How Röntgen accidentally discovered x-rays & changed the world

Explained | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

Why in the News?

On the evening of November 8, 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen was conducting experiments in his laboratory at the University of Würzburg in Germany when he made an unusual discovery.

Did you know the Röntgen’s discovery story of X-rays?

While experimenting with cathode rays in a glass vacuum tube, Röntgen noticed a fluorescent screen glowing at a distance, despite being too far to be affected by the rays he was studying.
Intrigued by this unexpected glow, he wondered if this mysterious ray could penetrate organic materials, so he experimented by photographing his wife’s hand, capturing her bones and ring. This was the world’s first recorded X-ray image of the human body.
Röntgen documented his findings in an article titled “On a new kind of rays,” in 1895 which was published by introducing “X-rays” to the scientific community.

How did Röntgen’s discovery transform Medical practices and Diagnostics?

Revolution in Diagnostic Medicine: Physicians rapidly adopted X-rays, which allowed them to view the human body without surgery. This was transformative for diagnostics, especially in orthopedics and internal medicine.
Surgical Advancements: By February 1896, British physician Major John Hall-Edwards had successfully used X-rays to guide the surgery. Within months, armies began using X-ray technology to locate bullet wounds and diagnose fractures, marking the beginning of its use in trauma care.

What are the long-term implications of Röntgen’s discovery on Public health and Safety?

Development of Radiology: this discovery led to the birth of radiology, with subsequent advancements leading to CT, MRI, ultrasound, and other imaging technologies that are essential in modern medicine.
Radiation Safety and Awareness: Initially, x-rays were used liberally, even for non-medical purposes (such as in shoe stores to fit footwear), with little awareness of potential harm. It wasn’t until early reports of radiation burns and later research in the early 20th century that the health risks of radiation exposure were acknowledged, prompting the development of safety protocols.
Ongoing Safety Protocols: Today, radiation safety is central to radiology practices. Equipment advancements and regulatory standards have minimized exposure risks, making x-rays safe for patients and medical personnel while ensuring their continued benefits.
Public Health and Preventive Care: The ability to detect diseases, fractures, and other internal injuries without invasive procedures has been crucial for preventive care, enabling early detection and treatment. This has significantly impacted patient survival rates and quality of care, solidifying diagnostic imaging as a pillar of modern public health.

Issues related to X-ray machines in Rural areas:

Limited X-ray Equipment: Rural Community Health Centres (CHCs) in India often need more X-ray machines, with only 68% of available units functioning, primarily due to high operational costs and shortages of technicians.
Maintenance and Operational Delays: Even when X-ray machines are present, many remain non-functional due to installation delays and insufficient maintenance, as imaging services are not prioritized in CHC guidelines.
Access and Specialist Shortages: Rural patients face long travel distances to access imaging services, further limited by a concentration of radiologists in urban areas, reducing timely access to diagnostic interpretation.

Way forward:

Strengthen Infrastructure and Access: Increase the availability and functionality of X-ray machines in rural areas by improving equipment maintenance, investing in portable and mobile X-ray units to bring diagnostic services directly to underserved populations.
- For example, Teleradiology enables remote interpretation of images, improving access to diagnostic services.
Telemedicine and Remote Diagnostics: Expand telemedicine platforms like ‘XraySetu’, enabling healthcare workers in rural areas to share X-ray images for remote analysis by radiologists, improving diagnostic capabilities without requiring patients to travel long distances.

Mains PYQ:

Q Appropriate local community level healthcare intervention is a prerequisite to achieve ‘Health for All’ in India. Explain. (UPSC IAS/2018)

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Minority Issues – SC, ST, Dalits, OBC, Reservations, etc.

SC overrules 1967 verdict on AMU’s minority tag

Explained | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Indian Constitution – historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure

Why in the News?

In a 4:3 majority decision, the Supreme Court overturned its 1967 Azeez Basha ruling, which had denied Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) minority status, directing that AMU’s status be reassessed according to the principles outlined in the current judgment.

Constitutional Provisions and Historical Background of the case:

The Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) was founded in 1875 and incorporated by imperial law in 1920.
Article 30 of the Constitution empowers religious and linguistic minorities to establish and administer educational institutions – AMU had enjoyed minority status.
A 1951 amendment to that imperial law, the AMU Act, did away with compulsory religious instructions for Muslim students.
In India, compulsory religious instruction is prohibited in state-funded educational institutions under Article 28.

In S. Azeez Basha vs. Union of India (1967), the SC ruled that AMU could not be considered a minority institution, as it was established by a central act, categorizing it as a central university.
- This ruling denied AMU the rights of minority institutions under Article 30 of the Indian Constitution.
In 1981, an amendment to the AMU Act attempted to restore AMU’s minority character, aiming to secure rights for it as a minority-administered institution.
The Allahabad High Court (2006) struck down the 1981 amendment, reinforcing the Supreme Court’s earlier ruling and reasserting that AMU did not qualify as a minority institution.

What criteria will be used to assess AMU’s minority status?

The SC emphasized that an educational institution must be established by a minority community to qualify for minority status under Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution.
- This involves examining who initiated the idea of the institution and whether it was primarily intended to benefit that community.
Holistic Two-Fold Test: The Court introduced a two-fold test:
- First Limb: Identify the “brain behind” the establishment, which includes reviewing correspondence and documentation that reflect the intentions of the founders.
- Second Limb: Assess whether the administrative structure of the institution affirms its minority character and serves to protect and promote the interests of the minority community.
Broad Interpretation of “Established”: The ruling clarified that “established” should be interpreted broadly, meaning that an institution can still be considered a minority institution even if it is governed by a statutory body or has undergone changes in its legal status over time.

How does this ruling affect the legal precedent set by the 1967 Azeez Basha case?

The overruling of Azeez Basha: The SC’s decision effectively overruled its previous 1967 ruling, which had declared AMU as not being a minority institution because it was established through a government statute rather than directly by a minority community.
New Framework for Minority Status: This ruling marks a shift towards a more inclusive interpretation of what constitutes a minority institution, allowing for a reassessment of AMU’s status based on historical context and community intent rather than solely on formal legal definitions.
Legal Autonomy Reaffirmed: The judgment underscores that legislative recognition does not negate an institution’s minority character, challenging previous interpretations that linked statutory establishment with loss of minority status.

What are the implications of this ruling for Educational rights and Reservations?

Potential for Reservations: If AMU is recognized as a minority institution, it could reserve seats specifically for Muslim students in various programs without needing to adhere to general reservation policies applicable to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) under Article 15(5) of the Constitution.
Autonomy in Administration: The ruling provides AMU greater autonomy in managing its affairs, including admissions and staff appointments, thereby allowing it to align its policies with the interests of the Muslim community it serves.
Broader Educational Rights: This decision reinforces the constitutional rights granted to minorities under Article 30(1), ensuring that they can establish and administer educational institutions without undue interference from state laws, thereby promoting educational diversity in India.

Way forward:

Define Minority Status Framework: Parliament could establish a clear legislative framework based on the Supreme Court’s criteria, ensuring consistent and streamlined recognition of minority institutions across India.
Balance Autonomy and Accountability: Policies should support minority institutions’ autonomy while maintaining accountability to uphold educational standards, ensuring both community-focused goals and inclusive, high-quality education.

Mains PYQ:

Q Major cities of India are becoming vulnerable to flood conditions. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

In news: Bidar Fort

Prelims Only | History | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Bidar Fort

Why in the News?

The Karnataka Waqf Board has identified 17 monuments within the historic Bidar Fort as its own property.
- These include the 16-Khamba Mosque (Sixteen Pillar Mosque) and 14 tombs of Bahmani rulers and their family members, including Ahmed Shah-IV, Allauddin, Hassan Khan, and others.

About Bidar Fort:

It is situated in Bidar City on the northern plateau of Karnataka, India.
The fort’s history dates back over 500 years, beginning with the Western Chalukya dynasty.
Sultan Ahmed Shah Wali of the Bahmani dynasty made Bidar his capital in 1430 and renovated it into a strong citadel.
Architectural Features:
- Constructed from trap rock with stone and mortar used for walls.
- Notable for its Islamic and Persian architectural elements, including:
  - Seven main entrances
  - 37 octagonal bastions equipped with metal-shielded cannons
  - Mosques, mahals, and over 30 Islamic monuments
- The entrance gate features a lofty dome painted in bright colors.

About the Bahmani Kingdom

The Bahmani Kingdom was established in 1347 when Ala-ud-din Hassan Bahman Shan revolted against Muhammad Bin Tughlaq of the Delhi Sultanate.
This marked the creation of the first independent Islamic kingdom in South India.
The kingdom covered areas in present-day Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Andhra Pradesh.
Initially, the capital was set in Ahsanabad (Gulbarga) but was later moved to Bidar.
The Bahmani Kingdom had 14 sultans in total, with prominent rulers like Alauddin Bahman Shah, Muhammad Shah I, and Firoz Shah.
One of the kingdom’s notable statesmen, Mahmud Gawan, served as the Prime Minister for 23 years, from 1458 to 1481.
- Under his guidance, the kingdom expanded its territories, including reclaiming Goa from the Vijayanagar Empire.
The Bahmani Kingdom began to decline around 1518 when Krishnadeva Raya of the Vijayanagar Empire defeated its last ruler, leading to the dissolution of the Bahmani rule in the region.

PYQ:

[2021] With reference to Indian history, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. The Nizamat of Arcot emerged out of Hyderabad State.

2. The Mysore Kingdom emerged out of Vijayanangara Empire.

3. Rohilkhand Kingdom was formed out of the territories occupied by Ahmad Shah Durrani.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 only

(d) 3 only

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Contention over South China Sea

Places in News: Loaita Island

World Mapping | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Effect Of Policies & Politics Of World On India’S Interests

Why in the News?

Philippine forces conducted combat exercises in the South China Sea to practice retaking the Loaita Island in the disputed waters.

Loaita Island

About Loaita Island:

Loaita Island, also known as Kota Island, has an area of 6.45 hectares and is the 10th largest of the naturally-occurring Spratly Islands.
The island is administered by the Philippines as part of Kalayaan, Palawan, and is also claimed by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
Loaita Island fringes the Loaita Bank, which includes shoals and reefs, and its western side features calcarenite outcrops visible at low tide.
The island is covered with mangrove bushes, coconut palms, and other small trees.
On May 22, 1963, a sovereignty stele was rebuilt on Loaita Island by South Vietnam, marking its claim.
The Philippines has stationed soldiers on the island since 1968, and the island contains minimal structures serving as shelters for the soldiers.

China also reasserted its claim over Flashpoint Reef (the Scarborough Shoal) in the South China Sea following Philippines’ establishment of defined sea boundaries.

About the Flashpoint Reef

Flashpoint Reef generally refers to Scarborough Shoal (part of the

Spratly Islands), a contested reef in the South China Sea.
Known as Huangyan Dao in China, this reef has become a focal point of territorial disputes between China and the Philippines.
Flashpoint Reef lies close to the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ); which asserts control over the entire South China Sea under its nine-dash line claim.
China took control of the shoal in 2012 after a standoff with the Philippines, despite an international tribunal ruling in 2016 that invalidated China’s claims.

Do you know?

Fiery Cross Reef is a rock located in the Spratly Islands. China first took possession of the feature in 1988.
Mischief Reef is a Low-Tide Elevation (LTE) within the Philippines’ EEZ. It is part of the submerged continental shelf of the adjacent coastal state, which is the Philippines.

PYQ:

[2018] Consider the following pairs:

Regions sometimes Country mentioned in news

Catalonia — Spain
Crimea — Hungary
Mindanao — Philippines
Oromia — Nigeria

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 3 and 4 only

(d) 2 and 4 only

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Indian Ocean Power Competition

[pib] MAHASAGAR Initiative

Prelims Only | Security Issues | Mains Paper 3: Various Security Forces, Agencies & Their Mandates

Why in the News?

The Indian Navy conducted the 3rd edition of MAHASAGAR Initiative, a high-level virtual interaction led by the Chief of Naval Staff.
- Theme: “Training Cooperation to Mitigate Common Maritime Security Challenges in IOR,” emphasizing the importance of training cooperation to address shared maritime challenges.

About MAHASAGAR Initiative:

	Details
About	MAHASAGAR stands for “Maritime Heads for Active (MAHA) Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)” SAGAR Doctrine was culminated out of PM’s vision in 2015. Launched by Indian Navy in 2023 as part of India’s commitment to maritime security and regional cooperation. Held bi-annually.
Aims	Training Cooperation: Collaborative training efforts among IOR nations. Capacity Building: Developing skilled manpower to address maritime security challenges.
Members	Countries bordering the Indian Ocean, include Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. Chief of Naval Staff of India leads the interactions. Heads of Navies, Maritime Agencies, and Senior Leadership from each participating country.

PYQ:

[2017] Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS):

1. Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.

2. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

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[pib] Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Statutory, Regulatory & Various Quasi-Judicial Bodies

Why in the News?

The Ministry of Law and Justice is inviting comments on the draft Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

The GoI has enacted and amended the Commercial Courts Act, 2015 to ensure that commercial cases are resolved quickly, effectively, and affordably.

Amendment History:
- The original Commercial Courts Act was enacted in 2015.
- Further amendments were made in 2018 to enhance the dispute resolution system.

Key features and provisions of the Commercial Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2024:

	Details
Purpose	To enhance the speed and efficiency of resolving commercial disputes through specialized courts and procedures.
Dedicated Commercial Courts	Creation of Commercial Courts at the District level and High Court level to exclusively handle commercial disputes.
Arbitration Matters	Provisions to establish specific courts for handling arbitration-related disputes.
Electronic Communication	Includes provisions for the use of audio-video electronic means (video conferencing) for court proceedings, recording of evidence, and communications.
Pre-Institution Mediation	Mandatory mediation before filing a commercial suit, unless urgent relief is required, aimed at reducing litigation burden.
Time-bound Decisions	Judgment must be pronounced within 60 days of the conclusion of arguments. The judgment must be delivered to the parties via email or other electronic means.
Injunction Applications	Courts must dispose of injunction applications within 90 days of filing, with reasons provided for any delay.
Infrastructure	Provisions for setting up infrastructure like video conferencing facilities and other necessary resources for the functioning of Commercial Courts.
Appeals Process	New provisions for expediting appeals, requiring prior notice to the opposing party before filing.
Witness Management	Provisions to streamline the witness list format, requiring comprehensive details, including addresses and documents, and facilitating electronic submission.
Execution Proceedings	Execution proceedings must be disposed of within six months from the date of filing the application.

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Corporate Social Responsibility: Issues & Development

Are CSR contributions to agriculture properly tracked?

Explained | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Effects Of Liberalization On The Economy, Changes In Industrial Policy and their effects on Industrial Growth

Why in the News?

Ten years ago, India became the first country to legally mandate Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The section 135 of the Companies Act 2013 establishes the rules governing CSR.

According to the National CSR Portal, ₹1.84 lakh crore in CSR funds was disbursed between 2014 and 2023.

About CSR:

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a business practice where companies contribute to social, economic, and environmental betterment, addressing societal needs alongside their profit-making objectives.

In India, the minimum percentage of a company’s net profit that must be spent on corporate social responsibility (CSR) is 2%.

Sectoral division of CSR:

Education: Receives the highest CSR share (33%-40%) for building schools, scholarships, infrastructure, and vocational training.
Health Care: Allocates 20%-30% of CSR funds to hospitals, health camps, sanitation, and disease prevention.
Environmental Sustainability: Accounts for 5%-10% of CSR funds, with projects in biodiversity conservation, waste management, and renewable energy.

CSR’s Role in Agriculture

Claims 10%-15% of CSR funds, targeting infrastructure, agricultural practices, and livelihood support.
Since the enactment of the Companies Act in 2013, which mandates CSR spending, a total of Rs 1.84 lakh crore has been disbursed in CSR funds from 2014 to 2023.
- These funds have increasingly targeted sustainability initiatives within agriculture, with 23% of surveyed companies prioritizing “environment and sustainability” in their CSR activities.
Over 90.8% of farmers involved in CSR programs reported improvements in income or risk reduction due to these initiatives.

How much of an impact does Agriculture have on India’s GDP?

Agriculture contributes approximately 15% to 18.2% of India’s GDP, reflecting a decline from 35% in 1990-91 due to rapid growth in the industrial and service sectors. The average annual growth rate of the agricultural sector has been around 4% over the last five years. (acc to pib data)
Agriculture remains crucial for employment, providing livelihoods for about 42% of the population, which is significantly higher than the global average of 25%.

What are the key requirements to improve agricultural sustainability?

Investment in Infrastructure: There is a pressing need for capital investment in infrastructure development, including irrigation systems, cold storage, and transportation networks to reduce post-harvest losses and improve market access.
Technological Advancements: Adoption of modern agricultural practices and technologies is essential. This includes better seed varieties, efficient irrigation methods, and sustainable farming techniques to enhance productivity.
Environmental Sustainability Initiatives: Projects focusing on water conservation, energy-efficient irrigation, and agroforestry are critical for maintaining ecological balance while improving agricultural output.

What hinders CSR’s potential for agriculture?

Lack of Clear Reporting Mechanisms: One of the main obstacles is the absence of robust frameworks to track and categorize CSR funding specifically directed towards agricultural initiatives. Current reporting practices do not emphasize agriculture-related CSR activities adequately.
Diverse Allocation Categories: CSR activities can fall under multiple categories (e.g., gender equality, and environmental sustainability), making it difficult to isolate funds specifically aimed at agricultural sustainability. This lack of specificity hampers effective monitoring and impact assessment.
Need for Distinct Sector Identification: To maximize CSR contributions to agriculture, it is crucial to identify agriculture as a distinct sector within CSR activities. This would streamline funding processes and enhance transparency and accountability in how funds are utilized for agricultural development.

Way forward:

Establish Agriculture as a Separate CSR Category: Need to create a distinct sector for agriculture in CSR reporting to streamline funding, improve transparency, and enable targeted monitoring of agriculture-focused initiatives.
Implement Comprehensive Reporting Frameworks: The government should develop robust mechanisms for tracking CSR funds specifically allocated to agricultural projects, ensuring clear categorization and facilitating better impact assessments.

Mains PYQ:

Q With a consideration towards the strategy of inclusive growth, the new Companies Bill, 2013 has indirectly made CSR a mandatory obligation. Discuss the challenges expected in its implementation in right earnest. Also discuss other provisions in the Bill and their implications. (UPSC IAS/2013)

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Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

Project to monitor animal health launched

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Economics Of Animal-Rearing

Why in the News?

The Union Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying launched the ‘Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response’ initiative in New Delhi.

What is the primary aim of the Animal Health Security Project?

The Animal Health Security Project aims to strengthen India’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to animal health threats, reducing zoonotic disease risks through enhanced surveillance, laboratory systems, and regional collaboration.

What are the objectives of the Animal Health Security Project?

Prevention, Detection, and Response: Enhance India’s ability to prevent, detect, and respond to animal health threats, minimizing risks of pathogens transmitting from animals to humans.
Strengthen Surveillance Systems: Improve and integrate animal disease surveillance and early warning systems to promptly identify potential threats.
Laboratory and Vaccine Infrastructure: Upgrade and expand laboratory networks and vaccine manufacturing facilities to ensure preparedness.
Data Systems and Analytics: Strengthen interoperable data systems and analytics capabilities to support informed decision-making and risk communication.
Cross-Border Collaboration: Promote regional cooperation for transboundary animal disease control through cross-border collaborations.

How is the project funded and what is its timeline?

The project is funded by the Pandemic Fund established by the G20 countries, which aims to help low- and middle-income countries improve their pandemic preparedness.
- The fund’s first round raised $2 billion, and India’s project received a $25 million grant.
The project will be implemented by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Timeline: Expected to conclude by August 2026.

Why is this project necessary for India?

Zoonotic Disease Threat: About two-thirds of infectious diseases in humans are zoonotic (transmitted from animals), with recent examples including COVID-19. India’s large population of 536 million livestock makes it vulnerable to zoonotic outbreaks.
Public Health Impact: With five of the six major global public health emergencies in recent decades being zoonotic, the project is crucial for India’s pandemic prevention and public health security.
Vulnerable Population Protection: By addressing animal health threats, the project aims to protect the health, nutritional security, and livelihoods of vulnerable populations reliant on livestock.

Way forward:

Strengthen Coordination Across Sectors: Enhance collaboration between animal health, public health, and environmental sectors to create an integrated response to zoonotic threats, ensuring swift data sharing and response mechanisms.
Sustain Capacity Building and Infrastructure Investments: Ensure continued investment in laboratory networks, vaccine production, and training to maintain preparedness, and bolster resilience against emerging animal-to-human diseases beyond the project’s timeline.

Mains PYQ:

Q COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide. However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an account of how technology was sought to aid management of the pandemic. (UPSC IAS/2020)

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Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)

India should be part of RCEP, CPTPP: NITI Aayog CEO

Explained | International Relations | Mains Paper 2: Bilateral, Regional and Global Groupings and agreements involving India

Why in the News?

According to NITI Aayog CEO, India should join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

What are the implications of India joining RCEP and CPTPP?

Enhanced Trade Opportunities: Joining RCEP and CPTPP could significantly boost India’s trade by providing access to larger markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific regions.
- These agreements encompass a wide range of goods and services, potentially increasing India’s exports, especially from its Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), which account for 40% of exports.
Integration into Global Supply Chains: Participation in these trade blocs would facilitate India’s integration into global supply chains, allowing it to benefit from the ‘China plus one’ strategy that many countries are adopting to diversify their supply sources away from China.
- This could enhance India’s manufacturing sector and attract foreign investment.
Regulatory Alignment: Being part of these agreements would necessitate aligning India’s regulatory frameworks with international standards, which could improve the business environment and attract more foreign direct investment (FDI).

How does India’s current tariff structure affect its competitiveness in global trade?

India’s current tariff structure is characterized by relatively high average tariffs compared to other major economies. For instance:

Average Tariffs: India has an average applied tariff of approximately 13.8%, which is higher than that of China (9.8%) and the U.S. (3.4%) but lower than some other countries when considering trade-weighted averages.
High Bound Tariffs: Many of India’s bound tariff rates on agricultural products are among the highest globally, ranging from 100% to 300%, creating significant barriers for foreign exporters.

What are the risks associated with joining RCEP, particularly concerning competition with China?

Increased Competition with China: One of the primary risks of joining RCEP is the potential for increased competition with Chinese firms, which may have cost advantages due to economies of scale and established supply chains.
Pressure on Domestic Industries: Opening up to international competition might pressure local industries, particularly in sectors where they are less competitive compared to their counterparts in member countries.
- This could lead to job losses and require significant adjustments within certain sectors.
Easy geopolitical Impact on the economy: Increased reliance on trade agreements may expose India to external economic fluctuations, particularly if global demand shifts or if geopolitical tensions impact trade dynamics within these blocs.

Way forward:

Selective Tariff Reductions and Safeguards for Sensitive Sectors: India should negotiate phased tariff reductions and secure safeguards for vulnerable sectors like agriculture and small manufacturing.
- This approach would protect local industries while allowing gradual integration into RCEP and CPTPP markets.
Strengthening Domestic Industries and MSMEs: India can boost competitiveness by enhancing MSME support through targeted subsidies, infrastructure improvements, and technology upgrades. Strengthening these sectors will help India leverage new market access and build resilience against foreign competition.

Mains PYQ:

Q Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC IAS/2016)

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Innovations in Sciences, IT, Computers, Robotics and Nanotechnology

How climate change is bringing back the idea of Airships?

Prelims Only | Science Tech | Mains Paper 3: Awareness in various sc and tech fields

How climate change is bringing back the idea of Airships?

Why in the News?

Some companies have been working to solve the buoyancy challenge of Airships, a longstanding issue that has hindered their use for cargo transportation.

What are Airships?

Airships are lighter-than-air aircraft capable of controlled powered flight.
They were the first aircraft to achieve this and were considered the future of travel in the early 20th century.
However, as aeroplane technology advanced, the popularity of airships declined due to their technological limitations.
Today, airships are used mainly for:
- Advertising platforms
- Aerial observation for research and military purposes
- Tourism and scenic flights

Note: Buoyancy is the force that makes things float. It acts in the opposite direction to gravity. When an object is placed in a fluid (like air or water), the fluid pushes up against the object, helping it to stay afloat.

How do Airships work?

Airships achieve lift by using lighter-than-air gases within their structure, much like helium balloons.
Early airships used hydrogen due to its lightweight and low cost.
- However, hydrogen is highly flammable, leading to tragic incidents such as the Hindenburg disaster of 1937, which damaged public trust in airships.
Most airships today use helium, a non-flammable gas that is safer than hydrogen.
However, helium is scarce and expensive, costing about $35 per cubic meter (enough to lift just 1 kg).
Challenge with varying Buoyancy:
- Airships require the ability to vary their buoyancy to adjust for weight changes when picking up or dropping off loads.
- Solutions such as releasing and refilling helium are impractical due to helium’s high cost and scarcity.

How Airships are a Promising Solution?

Airships hold potential as low-emission cargo vehicles due to their unique design:

Airships have a high lift-to-drag ratio, meaning they consume far less fuel than aeroplanes for moving the same load.
Companies are exploring the use of ballast to regulate airship buoyancy, a method common in hot air balloons and submarines.
A French company has created a 200-meter “flying crane” airship called LCA60T, which can pick up water as ballast mid-flight, avoiding the need for specialized ground infrastructure.
With concerns about climate change and the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, airships offer a less polluting alternative. They do not burn fossil fuels to lift, making them an eco-friendly choice.

PYQ:

[2017] Examine the development of Airports in India through joint ventures under Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard?

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