Indiaâs coffee exports in the 2024 calendar year witnessed a significant growth of 45% in dollar terms, reaching an all-time high of $1.684 billion, compared to $1.160 billion in 2023.
Coffee Production in India
Coffee was introduced to India in 1600s by Baba Budan, who planted seven seeds in Chikmagalur, Karnataka.
Karnataka is the largest producer, contributing 70% of the total, followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Over 70% of India’s coffee production is exported, making India the 8th largest coffee exporter globally.
Coffee thrives in tropical to semi-tropical climates with temperatures of 16°â28°C and annual rainfall of 150â250 cm.
The plant grows best on well-drained slopes with laterite soils, especially in Karnataka.
Major varieties cultivated include Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica. Arabica has a higher market value due to its mild aromatic flavor.
The Coffee Board of India plays a crucial role in promoting the Indian coffee industry by focusing on export promotion, domestic market development, and improving production and quality standards.
Note:
The Coffee Board of India was established in 1942 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
It is headquartered in Bangalore and consists of 33 members, including a Chairman appointed by the Government of India.
Initially, it managed the pooled supply and marketing of coffee until 1995. After economic liberalization, coffee marketing became a private-sector activity.
Reasons for growth
Coffee prices reached record highs in 2024 due to poor weather conditions in major coffee-producing nations like Brazil and Vietnam, leading to increased global demand for Indian coffee.
The anticipated rollout of European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) norms prompted advance purchases by European buyers, including roasters and traders, boosting demand for Indian coffee exports.
A 37% increase in unit value per tonne enhanced the overall export revenue, driven by higher global prices and better quality of Indian coffee.
Efforts to strengthen relationships with traditional buyers (e.g., Italy, Germany) while expanding to emerging markets (e.g., UAE) helped diversify export destinations and increase overall volumes.
PYQ:
[2010] Though coffee and tea both are cultivated on hill slopes, there is some difference between them regarding their cultivation. In this context, consider the following statements:
Coffee plant requires a hot and humid climate of tropical areas whereas tea can be cultivated in both tropical and subtropical areas.
Coffee is propagated by seeds but tea is propagated by stem cuttings only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains GS3: GS3-16.Achievements of Indians in Science & Technology
Why in the News?
Bellatrix Aerospace, the Bengaluru-based space startup, has announced a significant milestone with the successful demonstration of its Rudra High-Performance Green Propulsion System during the PSLV C-60 mission, onboard the POEM-4 platform.
About Rudra 1N System:
The Rudra 1N System is an advanced green mono-propellant propulsion system developed by Bellatrix Aerospace, a Bengaluru-based space technology start-up.
It is a cutting-edge solution for space propulsion, designed to enhance efficiency, precision, and sustainability in satellite and space platform operations.
Features and Significance:
Demonstrated a 1.4-degree/sec disturbance on the Yaw axis and an 80-degree angular rotation during its operational tests, highlighting its precise manoeuvering capabilities.
Utilizes a non-toxic, environmentally friendly propellant to minimize ecological impact during space missions.
Offers a cleaner alternative to traditional chemical propulsion systems.
Entirely designed and manufactured in-house, showcasing Bellatrix Aerospaceâs technological independence.
Suitable for a variety of satellite sizes and mission profiles, offering scalability.
About the PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4)
POEM-4 is a platform developed by ISRO that repurposes the spent 4th stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) into a functional orbital laboratory.
It enables cost-effective research in space by hosting various scientific and technological experiments in microgravity.
It utilizes the fourth stage of the PSLV rocket as a stable microgravity testbed.
It supports diverse experiments, such as studying plant growth, bacterial behavior, and other space phenomena.
It thus maximizes the utility of what would otherwise become space debris.
POEM-4 was launched aboard the PSLV-C60 rocket, also known as the SpaDeX (Space Docking Experiment) mission.
Mains GS3: GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.
Why in the News?
Several major US banks have recently withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA), raising concerns about the banking sectorâs commitment to combating climate change.
What is Net-Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA)?
Established as a bank-led, UN-convened initiative, the NZBA commits members to align their lending, investment, and capital market activities with achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.
It is a part of the UNEP Financial Initiativeâs Principles for Responsible Banking, serving as a climate accelerator.
NZBA retains 142 members from 44 countries, with 80 European banks representing the majority of the allianceâs $64 trillion in assets.
No Indian banks are signatory to this NZBA.
Structural Mandate:
Overseen by a Steering Group representing diverse geographies and business models.
Supported by the UNEP FI Secretariat and governed under documents updated in August 2023 and March 2024.
Commitments of Member Banks:
Transition operational and portfolio emissions to align with net-zero pathways.
Set 2030 targets (or sooner) within 18 months of joining and establish intermediate targets every five years.
Publish annual reports on absolute emissions and emissions intensity.
What is the Net-Zero Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Target by 2050?
Net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 refer to achieving a balance between the amount of GHGs emitted into the atmosphere and the amount removed or offset by natural or technological means.
This target is critical for limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as outlined in the Paris Agreement.
About the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ)
The GFANZ is a global coalition of leading financial institutions committed to accelerating the transition to a net-zero economy and achieving net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.
It was established in April 2021 in the lead-up to the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow.
Membership comprises over 550 financial institutions across 50 countries.
Includes banks, insurers, asset managers, and other financial players managing a combined $150 trillion in assets.
It is chaired by Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of England and current UN Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance.
It is supported by global initiatives like the UN Race to Zero campaign and other financial alliances.
PYQ:
[2016] The term âIntended Nationally Determined Contributionsâ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of:
(a) Pledges made by the European countries to rehabilitate refugees from the war-affected Middle East.
(b) Plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to combat climate change.
(c) Capital contributed by the member countries in the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.
(d) Plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goals.
Addressing NCC cadets in Delhi, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar outlined a visionary roadmap for India’s development, rooted in five guiding principles known as PanchPran.
What is Panch Pran (Five Pillars of National Transformation)?
The PanchPran, or five resolves, represent the core principles that aim to guide Indiaâs progress toward becoming a globally admired nation.
This framework integrates personal responsibility, traditional values, environmental sustainability, cultural pride, unity, and self-reliance to shape a stronger and more resilient nation.
The 5 principles are:
Social Harmony: Strengthens national unity by transforming Indiaâs diverse cultures and traditions into sources of collective strength.
Family Enlightenment: Emphasizes the role of families in nurturing patriotic and moral values, forming the foundation for a cohesive and enlightened society.
Environmental Consciousness: Advocates for sustainable development through the conservation and protection of natural resources.
Swadeshi: Promotes self-reliance and prioritization of indigenous products as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Civic Duties: Encourages citizens to actively contribute to the nationâs progress by fulfilling their civic responsibilities.
About National Cadet Corps (NCC)
The NCC is the youth wing of the Indian Armed Forces with its headquarters in New Delhi.
It is open to school and college students on voluntary basis as a Tri-Services Organisation, comprising the Army, the Navy and the Air Force.
Cadets are given basic military training in small arms and drill.
Officers and cadets have no liability for active military service once they complete their course.
The NCC was formed in 1948.
It can be traced back to the âUniversity Corpsâ, which was created under the Indian Defence Act 1917, with the objective to make up for a shortage of personnel in the Army.
The NCC is headed by the Director General (DG), an officer of 3-star rank.
Q) Critically examine the Supreme Courtâs judgement on âNational Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014â with reference to appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India.(UPSC CSE 2017)
Q) The judicial systems in India and the UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices. (UPSC CSE 2020)
Mentorâs Comment: UPSC Mains has always focused on âNational Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014â (2017) and Comparison between judicial systems in India and the UK (2020)
Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud is starting his final working week. During his time leading the Supreme Court Collegium, the team worked hard to fill judicial vacancies but overlooked some important issues.In two years, the Collegium supported free speech online, dignity for all regardless of sexual orientation, and fairness in judicial appointments.
Todayâs editorial talks about the reform in the Collegium system of India and this content will help you in the Mains answer (GS II) paper to steps taken in reform related to the Judicial system in India.
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Let’s learn!
Why in the News?
Recently, two significant developments regarding the Supreme Court of India’s Collegium have emerged – firstly, the interviews for Judicial Candidates and secondly the exclusion of Relatives in Judiciary.
The Collegium will now conduct interviews for candidates recommended for High Court elevation, shifting from a reliance on biodata to personal assessments.
The Collegium is considering excluding candidates with close relatives who are or have been judges, aiming to reduce nepotism and promote diversity in judicial appointments.
How is the Collegium system adapting to recent controversies and challenges?
Candidate Interviews: The Collegium has decided to conduct interviews for candidates recommended for elevation to High Courts. This step aims to enhance the selection process by allowing decision-makers to engage directly with nominees, thereby improving the assessment of their qualifications.
Exclusion of Relatives: The Collegium plans to exclude candidates whose close relatives have served or are currently serving as judges in the High Courts or the Supreme Court.
This initiative seeks to promote diversity within the judiciary and reduce concerns about nepotism, although it recognizes that some deserving candidates may be overlooked.
Need for Formal Rules: There is a pressing need for a clear set of binding rules governing the Collegium’s functioning. Currently, the system operates without formal regulations, leading to concerns about accountability and transparency. Establishing such rules is essential for maintaining the integrity of the judicial appointment process.
What is the Collegium system?
The Three Judges Cases form the cornerstone of the collegium system in India, which governs the appointment and transfer of judges to the higher judiciary. These cases interpreted the provisions of Article 124 and Article 217 of the Constitution, dealing with the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts, respectively.
âąFirst Judges Case (1981): The Supreme Court ruled that the executive (President) has primacy in judicial appointments, and the Chief Justice of India’s (CJI) opinion is not binding, granting greater power to the executive. âąSecond Judges Case (1993): The court overruled the First Judges Case, establishing the collegium system, where judicial appointments and transfers are decided by the judiciary, led by the CJI and senior judges, ensuring judicial independence. âąThird Judges Case (1998): The collegium was expanded to include the CJI and the four senior-most judges for Supreme Court appointments and CJI with two senior-most judges for High Court appointments, refining the process for transparency and collective decision-making.
What is the criticism of the Collegium system?Â
âąNJAC Act (2014): Parliament attempted to replace the collegium system with the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC). However, the NJAC was struck down in the Fourth Judges Case (2015) as unconstitutional, as it was deemed to compromise the independence of the judiciary. âąOngoing Debates: Critics argue that the collegium system lacks transparency, accountability, and an objective process for appointments. Reforms to balance independence with accountability remain a contentious issue.
What are the potential consequences of leadership changes within the Supreme Court for the Collegium’s future?
Impact on Reform Initiatives: New Chief Justices may prioritize different aspects of judicial appointments, influencing how reforms are implemented. A Chief Justice committed to reform could advocate for greater transparency and adherence to established procedures, while a more conservative leader might resist changes.
Shifts in Decision-Making Dynamics: The leadership style of incoming Chief Justices can alter the dynamics within the Collegium, affecting how candidates are evaluated and selected. This could lead to variations in collegial discussions and recommendations.
Implementation of Existing Rules: The ability to enforce existing legal frameworks related to judicial appointments will depend on the leadership’s willingness to uphold rulings from previous Judges’ cases. Respecting these rulings is crucial for maintaining judicial independence and ensuring that the law is followed.
Way forward:
Formalize Collegium Procedures: Draft and implement clear binding rules to govern the Collegium’s functioning which ensures transparency, accountability, and merit-based judicial appointments while addressing concerns of nepotism and bias.
Strengthen Institutional Practices: Institutionalize reforms like candidate interviews, broaden diversity, and adopt technology-driven decision-making to enhance efficiency, fairness, and public confidence in the judiciary.
Mains GS2: GS2-01. Indian Constitution-Historical underpinnings & evolution; Features, amendments, significant provisions, basic structure of Constitution
Why in the News?
Tamil Nadu Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the Legislative Assembly without giving his opening address for the first session of the year, saying the National Anthem was not played before his speech. Last year, he also refused to read his address.
What is the practice followed in the TN Legislative Assembly during and after the Governorâs address?Â
Governor’s Address Protocol: Traditionally, the Tamil Thai Vaazhthu (state anthem) is sung at the beginning of the Governor’s address, while the National Anthem is played at the end. This practice was established in July 1991 during the AIADMK government led by Jayalalithaa.
Recent Incident:Â Governor R.N. Ravi walked out of the Assembly without delivering his address, citing that only the state anthem was played upon his arrival and not the National Anthem. He expressed that this constituted a disrespect to both the Constitution and the National Anthem.
Is singing the National Anthem mandatory on certain occasions?
Constitutional Duty: Article 51(A)(a) of the Constitution includes respecting the National Anthem as a fundamental duty of every citizen. However, it does not make its singing or playing mandatory on specific occasions.
Government Guidelines: The Ministry of Home Affairsâ Orders specify occasions when the National Anthem must be played, such as during civil and military investitures, parades, arrival/departure of the President or Governor, and ceremonial State functions.
Judicial Clarifications: The courts have observed that while the National Anthem deserves respect, its singing or playing on all occasions is not mandatory unless explicitly specified.
For instance, during cinema screenings, the Supreme Court ruled that playing the anthem is not obligatory but encouraged.
Can punishment be imposed if it isnât played at official functions?
Legal Provisions: The Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 penalizes deliberate insult or contempt of the National Anthem with imprisonment up to 3 years, a fine, or both.
Non-playing or non-singing of the anthem does not attract punishment unless it is a willful act of disrespect.
Relevant Case Example: In 2019, the Madras High Court dismissed a petition seeking punishment for the non-playing of the National Anthem at an official function, citing the lack of a legal mandate to enforce its singing or playing on all occasions.
Why does the government make the national anthem on major government occasions?
Fostering Unity and National Pride: Playing the National Anthem at significant government events reinforces a sense of collective identity, unity, and patriotism among citizens. It serves as a symbolic reminder of shared national values and aspirations, transcending regional, linguistic, and cultural differences.
Respecting Constitutional Ideals: Mandating the National Anthem aligns with Article 51(A)(a) of the Constitution, which enshrines the fundamental duty of every citizen to respect the National Anthem.
Its inclusion in major events underscores the importance of honouring national symbols and promoting a culture of respect and accountability in public life.
Way forward:Â
Establish Uniform Protocols: The government should issue clear and consistent guidelines for playing the National Anthem at official events to avoid confusion and ensure uniformity across states and institutions.
Promote Awareness and Respect: Conduct awareness campaigns emphasising the significance of the National Anthem as a unifying symbol, fostering voluntary respect and participation without compulsion or controversy.
Mains PYQ:
Q Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature. (UPSC IAS/2022)
Mains GS2: GS2-18.Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting Indiaâs interests.
Why in the News?
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan announced that the US is working to remove long-standing rules that have hindered nuclear cooperation between Indiaâs top nuclear entities and American companies.
What are the legal barriers hindering India’s participation in nuclear manufacturing?
10CFR810 Authorization: This regulation, part of the US Atomic Energy Act of 1954, restricts US nuclear vendors from manufacturing nuclear equipment or conducting nuclear design work in India.
While it allows for the export of equipment under strict safeguards, it prevents India from engaging in the manufacturing value chain and co-producing nuclear components for atomic power projects.
Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010: This Indian legislation establishes a framework for compensating victims of nuclear accidents and allocates liability to equipment suppliers. This provision raises concerns among foreign companies, such as GE-Hitachi and Westinghouse, regarding potential financial exposure and liability risks, which deters investment in India’s nuclear sector.
How does Indian liability law impact the Indo-US nuclear deal?
Liability Allocation: The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, establishes a framework that assigns strict liability to nuclear operators for damages resulting from nuclear incidents.
This means that operators are primarily responsible for compensation, which is capped at âč500 crore (approximately USD 60 million), with the central government liable for additional amounts up to 300 million Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) in case of higher damages.
Right of Recourse: The Act provides operators with a right of recourse against suppliers, which means that operators can seek compensation from suppliers if they incur costs due to an accident.
However, this right is not mandatory and is seen as an enabling clause, leading to concerns among suppliers about their financial exposure in the event of an incident.
Insurance Challenges: The liability law’s structure creates significant challenges for foreign suppliers in obtaining insurance coverage. Many suppliers require a clear legal cap on liability to insure themselves against potential accidents.
The open-ended nature of liability and the potential for significant financial exposure deter investment from companies like GE-Hitachi and Westinghouse, who are wary of entering a market where they could face unpredictable liabilities.
International Standards Compliance: The Indian liability framework is viewed as an outlier compared to international norms, which typically channel all liabilities to operators rather than suppliers. This divergence complicates foreign participation in India’s nuclear sector and hinders the operationalization of agreements like the Indo-US nuclear deal.
What steps are being taken to enhance Indo-US cooperation in the nuclear sector?
Removal of Regulatory Barriers: The US is finalizing steps to ease restrictions that have hindered nuclear collaboration since the 2005 deal, enabling closer ties between Indian entities and US private sector players.
Facilitating Technology Transfer: The regulatory changes will support the transfer of US nuclear technology to India, boosting India’s clean energy expansion efforts.
Strengthening the iCET Framework: Emphasis on the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) to foster collaboration in nuclear technology and other high-tech sectors like AI and quantum computing.
Addressing Liability Concerns: Discussions to resolve issues related to India’s nuclear liability laws aim to attract foreign suppliers and enhance investment opportunities in India’s nuclear energy sector.
Way forward:Â
Policy Reforms for Liability Clarity: Amend India’s Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to align with international norms by channelling liability solely to operators, reducing suppliers’ financial risks and encouraging foreign investment.
Promote Joint Ventures and Technology Transfer: Facilitate joint manufacturing and R&D collaborations under the iCET framework, leveraging US expertise in light water reactor technology and India’s manufacturing capabilities to achieve shared clean energy goals.
Mains PYQ:
Q What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss with reference to stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (UPSC IAS/2020)
Recently, India has started a big effort to move towards digital governance which aims to make services better for citizens and improve the skills of government workers.
What are the key challenges facing the implementation of digital governance in India?
Resistance to Change: Some segments of the government workforce are hesitant to adopt new technologies, leading to slow adaptation within bureaucratic structures. This resistance can hinder the overall effectiveness of digital initiatives.
Digital Divide: There is a significant disparity in internet access and digital literacy between urban and rural areas. Many rural employees lack the necessary infrastructure and skills to engage with digital platforms, potentially leaving them behind in the digital transformation process.
Incentive Structures: Current initiatives, such as the iGOT Karmayogi platform, risk becoming mere attendance trackers without meaningful outcomes. The lack of incentives for employees to apply new skills can undermine the effectiveness of training programs.
Cybersecurity Risks: As government operations increasingly move online, the risk of data breaches and cyberattacks escalates. Ensuring robust cybersecurity measures is essential to protect sensitive information and build trust in digital governance.
Need for Continuous Learning: The rapid evolution of technology necessitates ongoing training and upskilling opportunities for government employees to keep pace with new tools and platforms.
How can technology be leveraged to improve public service delivery and citizen engagement?
Streamlined Workflows: Initiatives like e-Office digitize workflows, reducing reliance on paperwork and enhancing operational efficiency, which leads to faster service delivery.
Enhanced Communication: Digital platforms facilitate real-time communication between government officials and citizens, improving transparency and responsiveness to public needs.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Technologies such as data analytics enable informed decision-making by providing insights into citizen needs and service effectiveness.
Citizen-Centric Platforms: Tools like MyGov allow for direct interaction between citizens and the government, fostering greater engagement and participation in governance processes.
Online Procurement Systems: Platforms like the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) streamline procurement processes, making them more transparent and efficient.
What role does collaboration play in successful digital governance?
Multi-Stakeholder Engagement: Effective digital governance requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including government bodies, NGOs, community leaders, and citizens, to ensure that diverse perspectives are considered.
Capacity Building: Collaborative efforts in training and capacity building can help equip government employees with the necessary skills to navigate digital tools effectively.
Sharing Best Practices: Partnerships with private sector entities can facilitate knowledge sharing and the adoption of innovative solutions that enhance public service delivery.
Policy Development: Collaborative frameworks can aid in developing policies that address challenges such as the digital divide and cybersecurity threats, ensuring a comprehensive approach to digital governance.
Feedback Mechanisms: Establishing channels for citizen feedback enhances accountability and allows for continuous improvement in digital governance initiatives.
Way forward:Â
Strengthening Digital Infrastructure and Training: Invest in improving digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas, and provide continuous, targeted training to government employees to bridge the skill gap and ensure effective use of technology.
Enhancing Collaboration and Incentives: Foster stronger collaboration between government, private sector, and communities while creating incentive structures that encourage employees to apply newly acquired skills, ensuring the tangible impact of digital governance initiatives.
Mains PYQ:
Q âThe emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) hasinitiated e-Governance as an integral part of governmentâ. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2020)
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla inaugurated âPanchayat Se Parliament 2.0â which seeks to give insight into the Constitution and parliamentary procedures to over 500 women representatives from Panchayati Raj institutions from across the country.
AboutâPanchayat Se Parliamentâ
The second edition of the program was organized by the National Commission for Women (NCW) in collaboration with the Lok Sabha Secretariat and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
The program brought together 502 elected women representatives from Scheduled Tribes, hailing from 22 states and Union Territories across India.
Objectives: The primary objectives of Panchayat Se Parliament 2.0 were to:
Empower women representatives by enhancing their understanding of constitutional provisions, parliamentary procedures, and governance frameworks.
Recognize the contributions of women leaders in areas such as education, rural development, and community welfare.
The first edition of the program, Panchayat Se Parliament 1.0, was held in January 2024.
It involved over 500 women sarpanches from across India and was organized by the National Commission for Women (NCW) in collaboration with the Lok Sabha Secretariat.
About National Commission for Women (NCW)
The NCW is a statutory body formed on 31 January 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990, to address women’s issues.
First Chairperson: Jayanti Patnaik.
Constitutional Provisions: Articles 15(3), 14, and 21 provide gender-neutral safeguards.
Objectives:
Represent women’s rights in India and provide a platform for their concerns.
Campaign topics: Dowry, politics, labor exploitation, police abuses, and equal representation in jobs.
Composition:
Chairperson: Nominated by the Central Government.
Five Members: Experts from fields like law, education, health, and women’s welfare.
Special Representation: One member each from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Powers:
Provide policy consultations.
Issue summons and requisition public records.
Receive evidence on affidavits and enforce attendance.
Functions:
Annual Reports: Submit reports on womenâs safeguards.
Investigation: Examine laws and constitutional protections.
Scrutiny: Review laws and recommend amendments.
Complaint Handling: Address rights violations and welfare laws.
Development Assessment: Monitor progress at national and state levels.
Systemic Improvements: Identify and resolve limitations in womenâs welfare systems.
PYQ:
[2017] Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer.
Mains GS3: GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights.
Why in the News?
Researchers at the University of California, have developed a nanopore-based diagnostic tool capable of detecting illnesses more quickly and accurately by analyzing signals from individual molecules.
What is the Nanopore-Based Tool?
The Nanopore-Based Tool is a groundbreaking innovation developed by UC Riverside scientists for disease diagnostics.
It leverages nanopores, which are tiny openings capable of detecting individual molecules like DNA and proteins.
By measuring electrical signals generated as molecules pass through the nanopore, the tool enables ultra-sensitive and precise detection of illnesses.
How does it Work?
Biological samples mixed with salts are introduced into the system.
Salts dissociate into ions, creating a flow through the nanopore.
As a DNA or protein molecule passes through the nanopore, it blocks the flow of ions.
This blockage reduces the flow, creating electrical signals.
The system measures the reduction in ion flow to identify the molecule.
Advanced circuitry accounts for missed signals, ensuring precise detection.
Nanopores filter out background noise, unlike traditional systems that require external filters, preserving critical data for accurate diagnostics.
Significance and Features of Nanopore Technology
It helps detect infections within 24 to 48 hours, much faster than traditional methods.
It is crucial for fast-spreading diseases, enabling timely intervention.
It captures signals from single molecules, eliminating the need for large biological samples.
It could revolutionize home testing and clinic-based diagnostics.
It helps Identify subtle differences in proteins, aiding in personalized treatment plans.
It promotes deeper understanding of how proteins impact health and disease.
It paves the way for single-molecule protein sequencing, offering insights beyond DNA sequencing.
PYQ:
[2015] With reference to the use of nanotechnology in health sector, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. Targeted drug delivery is made possible by nanotechnology.
2. Nanotechnology can largely contribute to gene therapy.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below: