A suspected case of Lyme disease caused by the bite of a tick carrying borrelia bacteria has been reported from Koovapady in Ernakulam district.
What is Lyme Disease?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Lyme is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks.
Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans.
If left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease
Symptoms of Lyme disease depend on the stage of the condition.
(1) Stage 1
The early symptoms of Lyme disease begin to appear within 3 to 30 days after a tick bite.
In this stage, the disease has a limited set of symptoms that includes rash, fever, headache, muscle aches etc. and hence is called early localised disease.
(2) Stage 2
Stage 2 is often more serious and widespread. It is called early disseminated disease.
Symptoms include more rashes on other parts of the body, neck pain or stiffness, muscle weakness on one or both sides of the face etc.
(3) Stage 3
In the United States, the most common condition of this stage is arthritis in large joints, particularly the knees.
Pain, swelling or stiffness may last for a long time. Or the symptoms may come and go.
Stage 3 symptoms usually begin 2 to 12 months after a tick bite.
Try this PYQ from CSE Prelims 2016:
Which of the following statements is/are correct?
Viruses can infect
bacteria
fungi
plants
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
[wpdiscuz-feedback id=”p1no71giat” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]
March 14, or 3/14, is celebrated globally as Pi Day, paying homage to the mathematical constant Pi (π).
About Pi Day
Initiated by: Physicist Larry Shaw of the Exploratorium museum in San Francisco started the tradition in 1988, which has since gained international recognition.
UNESCO Designation: In 2019, UNESCO designated Pi Day as the International Day of Mathematics, highlighting its significance in promoting mathematical awareness.
What is Pi?
Mathematical Constant: Pi (π) represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter, with a value of approximately 3.14.
Irrational Number: Pi is an irrational number, with a decimal representation that neither terminates nor repeats.
Ancient Approximations: Ancient civilizations, including Babylonians and Egyptians, approximated Pi using geometric methods, laying the foundation for its calculation.
Symbol of Beauty: Pi’s infinite and non-repeating decimal digits evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for the intricacies of mathematics.
Do you know?
Baudhayana (800 BC – 740 BC) is said to be the original Mathematician behind the Pythagoras theorem and Calculation of Pi (3.142).
Pythagoras theorem was indeed known much before Pythagoras, and it was Indians who discovered it at least 1000 years before Pythagoras was born!
The credit for authoring the earliest Sulbha Sutras goes to him.
Aryabhatta, another great Indian mathematician, worked out the accurate value of π to 3.1416. in 499AD.
Evolution of Pi Calculation
Archimedes’ Method: Greek polymath Archimedes devised a method to approximate Pi using inscribed and circumscribed polygons, pioneering early calculations.
Newton’s Contribution: Isaac Newton revolutionized Pi calculation using calculus, significantly simplifying the process and enabling rapid advancements.
Modern Computing: With the aid of modern computers, mathematicians have calculated Pi to trillions of decimal places, facilitating precise scientific calculations.
Practical Significance of Pi
Architectural and Engineering Applications: Pi plays a crucial role in designing structures, shaping engineering solutions, and facilitating accurate measurements.
Understanding the Universe: Pi’s significance extends to diverse fields, from space exploration to molecular biology, underscoring its universal applicability.
Intrinsic Value: Despite its vast decimal expansion, Pi holds intrinsic value as a symbol of mathematical beauty and infinity, inspiring exploration and discovery.
In a recent milestone, researchers from Cambridge University and the California Institute of Technology achieved a remarkable feat: transforming a sexually reproducing fruit-fly species into one capable of asexual reproduction through minor genetic modifications.
About Drosophila
Drosophila is a genus of two-winged flies commonly known as fruit flies that are used in evolutionary and developmental studies.
It is a genus of flies, belonging to the family Drosophilidae, whose members are often called “small fruit flies” or pomace flies, vinegar flies, or wine flies, a reference to the characteristic of many species to linger around overripe or rotting fruit.
The Drosophila melanogaster genome has 200,000,000 base pairs distributed across four DNA molecules, encoding about 13,600 genes.
Hence it is one of the most widely-used and preferred model organisms in biological research across the world for the last 100 years.
Parthenogenesis (Asexual Reproduction) in Drosophila Family
Parthenogenesis Discovery: Parthenogenesis, or fatherless reproduction, was observed in Drosophila mangebeirai, a species consisting solely of females.
Facultatively Parthenogenetic Species: Approximately 76% of sexually reproducing species, including Drosophila mercatorum, were found to exhibit facultative parthenogenesis, wherein isolated virgin females hatch eggs that develop into offspring without fertilization by males.
Canonical Species: Drosophila melanogaster, the standard species for research, strictly reproduces sexually.
Genetic Basis of Parthenogenesis
Identifying Relevant Genes: Researchers aimed to identify genes facilitating parthenogenetic development in Drosophila mercatorum eggs and modify the Drosophila melanogaster genome accordingly.
RNA Sequencing: Utilizing RNA sequencing, researchers identified 44 genes in parthenogenetic D. mercatorum eggs that exhibited differential expression compared to sexually reproducing eggs.
Engineering Asexual Reproduction
Genetic Modifications: Researchers manipulated the expression levels of specific genes in the Drosophila melanogaster genome to mimic those observed in parthenogenetic D. mercatorum eggs.
Outcome: Genetic alterations, including overexpression of the pologene and Myc gene and reduced expression of the Desat2 gene, resulted in approximately 1.4% of D. melanogaster eggs exhibiting parthenogenesis, with viable offspring reaching adulthood.
Reproductive Potential: Parthenogenetically produced adult flies were capable of mating with males and producing progeny, demonstrating facultative parthenogenesis in a strictly sexually reproducing species.
Mechanism Involving Polar Bodies
Role of Polar Bodies: Polar bodies, by-products of chromosome transmission mechanisms during fertilization, were implicated in initiating embryonic development in unfertilized eggs.
Efficiency Alterations: Genetic modifications likely impaired the sequestration and disposal of polar bodies, enabling them to substitute for the missing male pronucleus and initiate embryonic development.
Implications for Pest Control
Pest Management: Raises concerns about unintended consequences in pest control strategies reliant on sterilization or genome editing.
Genetic Engineering: Opens avenues for genetic manipulation in model organisms, aiding research in gene drive technology and population control.
Conservation Biology: Offers insights into species adaptability and potential impacts of genetic interventions on natural populations.
The field of genomics has witnessed remarkable progress over the last two decades, marked by significant advancements in sequencing, analysis, and interpretation of genomes.
As costs continue to decline, the next decade is set to witness widespread integration of genome sequencing in clinical settings, offering unprecedented opportunities alongside new challenges.
India’s Progress in Human Genomics
Milestones: India has achieved notable milestones in genomics, from the first genome sequencing in 2009 to the recent completion of sequencing 10,000 genomes. These endeavours have provided valuable insights into disease prevalence and catalyzed research and decision-making.
Population Diversity: With a diverse population exceeding 1.4 billion, India holds immense potential for genomic research. However, realizing this potential requires ambitious yet pragmatic strategies to ensure inclusivity and equitable access to genomic benefits.
Challenges in the field
Lack of Data Protection Laws: Absence of robust data protection laws raises concerns about privacy and security of genetic information.
Fragmented Genetic Data: Fragmentation of genetic data across organizations hampers accessibility for public health decision-making.
Discrimination Risks: Absence of laws against genetic discrimination exposes individuals to risks in areas like insurance and employment.
Advancements in Genome Sequencing: Milestones like sequencing 10,000 genomes offer insights into disease prevalence and accelerate research.
Diverse Population Base: India’s diverse population provides a rich source of data for understanding genetic variations and disease susceptibilities.
Cost-effective Testing Potential: Aggregating genetic data can enable the development of affordable genetic tests for early disease detection.
Ethical Framework Development: Prioritizing the development of ethical frameworks ensures responsible use of genomic technologies and fosters public trust.
Healthcare Transformation: Genomics has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery, offering personalized treatment approaches and improved health outcomes.
Ethical Considerations and Equity
Ethical Use of Technology: Ensuring ethical use of genomic technology is paramount to safeguarding individual rights and promoting equitable access to healthcare. Evidence-based guidelines and mechanisms to ensure the quality and validity of genomic tests are essential.
Equity and Diversity: Addressing disparities in access to genomic data and healthcare services is critical, particularly in a diverse country like India. Unregulated market forces could exacerbate existing barriers, widening disparities in healthcare access and research opportunities.
Way Forward for India
Role of Regulations: Effective regulations and policies foster trust among stakeholders, encouraging collaboration and innovation in genomic research.
Potential of Genomics: With proper oversight, genomic research can revolutionize healthcare by offering personalized treatments, disease prevention strategies, and diagnostic tools.
India’s Leadership Potential: India has the opportunity to lead in genomic research by enabling access to genomic technologies on a mass scale, contributing to a healthier future for its people
Conclusion
The advancement of human genomics holds immense potential to transform healthcare and improve outcomes.
However, realizing this potential requires concerted efforts to address regulatory gaps, promote equity and diversity, and ensure ethical use of genomic technologies.
With the right guidance and policies, India can emerge as a leader in genomic research, paving the way for a healthier and more prosperous future for its citizens.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved a Rs 15,000 crore project for the development of India’s fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), marking a significant stride in indigenous defense capabilities.
About Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
The AMCA project aims to design and manufacture a stealthy multirole fighter jet to bolster the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) combat fleet.
It was first initiated in 2007.
It is led by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the DRDO.
Features of AMCA
Stealth Technology:Stealth platforms possess a very low radar cross section and use Radar Absorbing Materials (RAM) to reduce radar reflection.
Equipped with advanced stealth features, the 25-tonne twin-engine aircraft will evade enemy radar detection, placing it on par with or even surpassing other fifth-generation stealth fighters globally.
Fuel and Weapons Capacity: The aircraft will feature a concealed internal fuel tank with a capacity of 6.5 tonnes and an internal weapons bay for carrying a diverse range of weapons, including indigenous armaments.
Engine Specifications: Initially powered by the US-built GE414 engine, the AMCA Mk2 variant will utilize a more powerful 110kN engine developed indigenously by DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in collaboration with foreign defense partners.
Specialized Design Features: The AMCA will incorporate innovative design elements such as a diverterless supersonic inlet and a serpentine air intake duct to optimize engine performance and minimize radar emissions.
Significance of the development
Indigenous boost: AMCA project underscores India’s quest for self-reliance in defense technology, following its withdrawal from the Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) collaboration with Russia in 2018.
Stealth Advantages: As a fifth-generation fighter, the AMCA will possess low electromagnetic signature, enhancing survivability and lethality in modern combat scenarios.
Enhanced Capabilities: With advanced sensors and weaponry, the AMCA will be capable of detecting and engaging enemy aircraft while remaining undetected, offering a significant advantage over fourth-generation counterparts.
Development Timeline and Prospects
Flight Schedule: Following CCS approval, the ADA aims to conduct the first flight of the AMCA within four and a half to five years, with full development expected to span around a decade.
Manufacturing Partnerships: HAL will undertake aircraft production, with private industry collaboration anticipated to expedite the manufacturing process.
Operational Imperatives: The IAF’s requirement for seven squadrons of AMCA underscores its pivotal role in augmenting India’s air combat capabilities amid dwindling fighter squadron numbers.
Global Context and Future Prospects
Limited Fifth-Generation Fleet: While countries like the US, China, and Russia possess fifth-generation stealth fighters, the AMCA will add India to this exclusive list, enhancing its strategic posture in the region.
IAF’s Modernization Needs: Amidst retiring legacy aircraft, the induction of AMCA squadrons will address critical operational gaps, ensuring a potent air combat fleet for the future.
Conclusion
The development of AMCA heralds a new era of indigenous defence manufacturing in India, underlining the nation’s commitment to technological advancement and military modernization.
With its advanced capabilities and stealth features, the AMCA promises to be a game-changer in the realm of aerial warfare, reinforcing India’s position as a formidable force in the global defence arena.
The human brain, composed of billions of neurons, orchestrates intricate processes that sustain life and enable complex cognitive functions.
Understanding these neural interactions is paramount, and scientists have achieved this through the concept of the connectome.
What is Connectome?
Definition: The Connectome serves as a comprehensive map of neuronal connections, akin to a cartogram illustrating the intricate network of synapses transmitting electrical and chemical signals within the brain.
Neural Communication: Neurons communicate through synapses, where dendrites receive chemical signals converted into electrical impulses transmitted along the axon. Subsequently, the cell releases chemicals into synapses based on electrical inputs, facilitating communication with neighbouring neurons.
Applications in Neuroscience
Functional Insights: Mapping the connectome provides invaluable insights into brain function, shedding light on processes underlying cognitive functions and elucidating the impact of neurological disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Alzheimer’s disease.
Drug Development: By unravelling cellular connections, researchers gain crucial knowledge about cognitive processes and associated disorders, informing the development of novel therapeutic interventions for conditions affecting neurological health.
Challenges and Progress
Complexity of the Brain: The intricate nature of the brain and the vast amount of data it processes present significant challenges in mapping the connectome.
Simplified Understanding: Despite these challenges, the connectome has revolutionized scientists’ comprehension of the brain, offering a clearer understanding of neurological health and paving the way for advancements in neuroscience research.
The Union Cabinet’s recent approval of the IndiaAI Mission marks a pivotal step towards harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) for national development.
With a significant financial outlay and multifaceted objectives, this mission aims to bolster India’s AI capabilities across various sectors, fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges.
What is IndiaAI Mission?
Objectives: Launched under the auspices of the Digital India Corporation (DIC), the IndiaAI Mission seeks to establish a robust AI ecosystem conducive to innovation and growth.
Key Initiatives: From enhancing computing infrastructure to promoting AI applications in critical sectors like healthcare and governance, the mission encompasses diverse initiatives aimed at fostering AI-driven solutions.
Public-Private Partnership: Leveraging a public-private partnership model, the mission endeavours to synergize governmental resources with private sector expertise, ensuring effective implementation and scalability.
Core Pillars of IndiaAI Mission
IndiaAI Compute Capacity: Building scalable AI computing infrastructure to meet the evolving demands of AI startups and research endeavours.
IndiaAI Innovation Centre: Spearheading the development and deployment of indigenous AI models tailored to specific sectors’ needs.
IndiaAI Datasets Platform: Facilitating access to high-quality datasets to fuel AI innovation and research.
IndiaAI Application Development Initiative: Promoting the application of AI solutions to address challenges in critical sectors.
IndiaAI FutureSkills: Fostering AI talent by expanding educational programs and training initiatives at various academic levels.
IndiaAI Startup Financing: Supporting deep-tech AI startups through streamlined funding mechanisms to drive innovation.
Safe & Trusted AI: Ensuring responsible AI deployment through the development of indigenous tools and frameworks.
Strategic Significance
National Development Agenda: The IndiaAI Mission aligns with the government’s vision of leveraging technology for inclusive growth and development.
Global Competitiveness: By showcasing India’s prowess in AI innovation and application, the mission enhances the country’s global standing and competitiveness.
Economic Impetus: By fostering AI-driven entrepreneurship and innovation, the mission catalyzes economic growth and job creation, leveraging India’s demographic dividend.
Regulatory Landscape: While fostering innovation, the mission underscores the need for responsible AI governance and regulatory frameworks to address ethical and safety concerns.
Integration with National Policy
Comprehensive Approach: The IndiaAI Mission complements existing national initiatives, such as the Digital India campaign and efforts to boost electronics manufacturing.
Strategic Alignment: The mission’s focus on AI infrastructure and talent development aligns with broader policy objectives aimed at fostering a conducive ecosystem for technology-driven innovation.
International Parallels: The government’s approach mirrors global trends, with other nations also prioritizing AI development and regulatory frameworks to balance innovation with safety and ethics.
Challenges and Regulatory Considerations
Navigating Regulatory Landscape: While promoting AI innovation, policymakers must navigate complex regulatory landscapes to ensure ethical AI deployment and safeguard against potential risks.
Balancing Innovation and Regulation: Striking a balance between fostering innovation and implementing regulatory safeguards remains a critical challenge for policymakers globally.
Lessons from International Models: Drawing insights from international models, India can devise a regulatory framework that fosters innovation while upholding ethical and safety standards.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the IndiaAI Mission heralds a new era of AI-driven innovation and development in India, offering a strategic roadmap to harness the transformative potential of AI for societal benefit.
By fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors and prioritizing talent development, this mission underscores India’s commitment to emerging as a global leader in AI innovation while navigating regulatory challenges to ensure responsible and ethical AI deployment.
The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is embarking on a significant milestone with the introduction of driverless trains equipped with cutting-edge technology.
As the first of its kind in Bengaluru, these trains represent a leap forward in urban transportation infrastructure.
About CBTC-Enabled Driverless Metro Train
Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC): The driverless metro trains are equipped with CBTC technology, enabling seamless communication between trains and control systems.
Unattended Train Operations (UTO): The trains boast full automation, including tasks such as door operations and train movement, under Enhanced Supervision Capability from the Operations Control Centre (OCC).
Enhanced Safety Measures: In addition to automation, the trains feature advanced safety protocols to ensure passenger well-being and operational efficiency.
Manufacturing and Design
Manufacturers: The train coaches are manufactured by CRRC Nanjing Puzhen Co Ltd, in collaboration with Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd., as part of the Make In India Initiative.
Technological Integration: These trains mark the first integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology for track monitoring and safety enhancement.
Customization for Bengaluru’s Needs: The design and manufacturing process have been tailored to address the specific requirements and challenges of Bengaluru’s urban environment.
Special Features
AI-Powered Track Monitoring: AI algorithms analyze sensor data to detect anomalies and ensure track safety.
Advanced Surveillance Systems: Front and rear-view cameras enable real-time monitoring of passenger activities and enhance security measures.
Emergency Egress Device (EED): Equipped with a user-friendly emergency system to ensure passenger safety during unforeseen circumstances.
Enhanced Passenger Comfort: The trains are designed with features aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and convenience during travel.
Safety Parameters
Testing Protocol: The prototype trains undergo a series of static and dynamic tests, including signalling, collision detection, and obstacle avoidance.
Statutory Approvals: Trials conducted by regulatory bodies such as the Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) and the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS) ensure compliance with safety standards.
Stringent Quality Assurance: The safety testing process includes comprehensive checks and balances to verify the reliability and performance of the trains under various operating conditions.
Operational Considerations
Transition Period: Initially, the trains will operate with a human train operator for a transitional period of at least six months.
Gradual Rollout: Revenue operations will commence with a limited number of trains, gradually transitioning to full-scale driverless operations.
Training and Skill Development: The transition to driverless operations will involve training programs and skill development initiatives for metro staff to ensure a smooth transition and operational efficiency.
Prelims: Recently, there was a growing awareness in our country about the importance of Himalayan nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) because it is found to be a sustainable source of [UPSC CSE 2019] a) Anti-malarial drug b) Biodiesel c) Pulp for paper industry d) Textile Fibre
Mains: 1. Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues involved. (UPSC CSE 2014)
2. What do you understand about Fixed Dose Drug Combinations (FDCs)? Discuss their merits and demerits. (UPSC CSE 2013)
Note4Students:
Mains: Drug Regulation and Disease control in India;
Prelims: Drugs in News;
Mentor comments: The Semaglutide which works as ‘magic injections for weight loss’, is a drug not approved for sale in India. Doctors are administering these drugs to affluent patients without proper approval or clinical trials in India. The lack of clinical trials in India poses risks on Indian patients and potential interactions with other medications too. We need to study the challenges and mechanisms for monitoring and control of these unapproved drugs in India.
Let’s learn.
—
Why in the News?
Concerns are raised around the use of unapproved drugs like Semaglutide in India.
The recent scandal involved spurious imported drugs like Adcetris which highlights the need for stricter controls and verification of imported medications to ensure patient safety.
Statistics and Reports on unapproved drugs in India:
The research revealed that around 64% of the 118 different formulations of fixed dose combination (FDC) drugs sold in the country between 2007 and 2012 were not approved by the national drugs regulator, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), even though the sale of unapproved new medicines is illegal in India.
The current Major two Regulatory Challenges in India:
1) No Clinical Trials in India:
Approval Process: Drugs are normally approved for sale in India after conducting clinical trials in the country. Once approved, the regulator mandates monitoring and reporting of adverse events for two years
Unapproved Drugs: Unapproved drugs have not undergone clinical trials in India, posing health risks and potential adverse reactions. Global pharma companies sometimes choose to stay out of the Indian market and not launch drugs in India.
Exceptional cases: Patients and hospitals can also apply for import licenses for unapproved drugs, but these are narrow exceptions to the rule.
2) Professional issues with Doctors:
Ethical Dilemma with Medical Professionals: Doctors face ethical questions about prescribing unapproved drugs when patients demand these drugs based on miracle reports. In such situations, it usually influences their decisions regarding unapproved medications.
For example, recent scandals such as Adcetris (a drug used to treat a type of blood cancer) and imported drugs highlight the importance of doctors ensuring the authenticity and safety of medications before administration.
Lack of Knowledge and Training: Many doctors have still not studied the full effects of these drugs and are trained to identify and treat adverse events. Doctors need to be cautious as patients may be using illegally imported drugs, raising concerns about safety and authenticity.
Case study:
Many decades ago, in the US, other types of weight loss drugs like ‘Rimonabant and Fen–Phen’ were marketed as a miracle weight loss cure. Soon, the miracle was demystified and pharma companies paid out approximately $4 billion in damages in mass tort litigation.
What are the potential challenges of Unapproved Drugs on Patients in India?
Health Risks: Patients face potential health risks due to the unknown effects and interactions of unapproved medications, leading to adverse reactions and complications.
Antimicrobial Resistance: The use of unapproved antibiotics contributes to antimicrobial resistance, undermining efforts to combat infectious diseases and posing a global health threat.
Legal Implications: Patients may unknowingly receive medications that are not approved for safety and efficacy, raising legal concerns for healthcare providers and regulatory authorities.
Lack of Oversight: Patients receiving unapproved drugs may lack proper monitoring and oversight, increasing the risk of adverse events and inadequate treatment outcomes.
What measures can be taken to prevent potential harm in India? (Way Forward)
To address the importation of unapproved drugs in India several measures can be taken:
Implement Clear Guidelines: Establish clear guidelines and regulations regarding the importation and use of unapproved drugs, ensuring that healthcare providers adhere to approved medications and treatments.
Strengthen Regulatory Oversight: Enhance regulatory oversight by conducting thorough inspections of drug manufacturing facilities in India and abroad to prevent the importation of unapproved or counterfeit drugs.
Enforce Accountability: Hold accountable those involved in administering unapproved drugs, including healthcare providers who prescribe them, by enforcing strict penalties for violating regulations.
Increase Awareness: Raise awareness among healthcare providers, patients, and the public about the risks associated with unapproved drugs and the importance of using only authorized medications.
Promote Compassionate Use Programs: Encourage the development of compassionate use programs that allow access to potentially life-saving drugs under specific circumstances while ensuring proper oversight and monitoring.
Practice Question: The prescription of unauthorized “miracle drugs” by doctors highlights gaps in the regulatory framework. Examine the potential harm to patients and suggest regulatory measures to prevent that harm.
Approach for the Answer:
Introduction: Theme: Unapproved Miracle Drugs and their use by affluent people by doctors’ prescription
Body: Demand 1: Highlight regulatory gaps in approval of Miracle drugs Demand 2: Enlist potential harms to patients Demand 3: Suggest regulatory measures to prevent harm
Prime Minister recently laid the foundation stone of ISRO’s second rocket launchport at Kulasekarapattinam.
Costing Rs 986 crore, this facility, strategically located in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district, will primarily serve commercial, on-demand, and small satellite launches in the future.
About Kulasekarapattinam
It will be second after Satish Dhawan Space Centre (Sriharikota Range (SHAR)), founded in Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota in 1971, with two launch pads.
It will focus on the launch of Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs) on a commercial basis.
It would have the capacity to launch 24 satellites per year using a mobile launch structure.
It strategic location helps save fuel for small rocket launches as the port can launch rockets directly south over the Indian Ocean without requiring crossing landmasses.
Need for such Facility
Fuel Saving: This is unlike the existing launch site at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, which adds more fuel requirements for launching into a polar orbit as rockets need to follow a curved path to the south to avoid Sri Lanka’s landmass.
Unburdening SHAR: The opening of the space sector to private players necessitates a rise in commercial launches, prompting ISRO to build a second launchport to alleviate the burden on the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR in Sriharikota.
Dedicated Launch for Small Payloads: While SHAR handles larger missions, Kulasekarapattinam launchport will cater exclusively to smaller payloads, including those for commercial purposes and on-demand launches.
Geographical Advantages
Strategic Location: Kulasekarapattinam provides a natural advantage for ISRO’s future launches, especially for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), due to its geographical, scientific, and strategic positioning.
Optimized Trajectory: The launch trajectory from Kulasekarapattinam enables a direct southward path for SSLVs, minimizing fuel consumption compared to launches from SHAR, which currently follow longer trajectories.
SSLVs: Purpose and Development
Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): SSLV is designed to launch small satellites weighing between 10 to 500kg into Low Earth Orbit, catering to commercial and on-demand launches.
Mission Successes: SSLV-D1’s launch in August 2022 failed to achieve the intended orbit, but SSLV-D2’s success in February 2023 marked a significant milestone for ISRO’s SSLV program.
