Research suggests that around 8% of the human genome is composed of Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs) often referred to as ‘zombie’ regions.
Retroviruses and Human Genome Integration
Most viruses can’t affect the human genome, but retroviruses are an exception.
Retroviruses can integrate and reshape the genomes of their hosts.
They have an RNA genome and can reverse-transcribe it to DNA, inserting it into the host’s genome.
This process is facilitated by the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
Discovered by Howard Temin and David Baltimore in 1971, this enzyme converts the virus’s RNA into a corresponding DNA sequence.
Historical Discoveries:
Viral causes of cancer were known even before the mechanism was understood.
In 1908, Oluf Bang and Vilhelm Ellermann discovered the viral cause of chicken leukosis.
In 1957, Ludwik Gross isolated a leukaemia-causing virus in mice.
What are Endogenous Retroviruses (ERVs)?
ERVs are remnants of ancient viral infections that have integrated into the genome of the host species.
When these retroviruses infect germ cells (sperm or egg cells), their genetic material can be passed down to the next generation, becoming a permanent part of the host’s DNA.
Zombie Regions:
They refer to inactive viral sequences within the genomethat no longer produce functional viruses but remain as embedded genetic fossils.
These regions are a result of retrovirus integration that has lost its ability to replicate and produce proteins, yet they persist in the host’s DNA.
Evolutionary Significance of ERVs:
In the life cycle of a retrovirus, reverse-transcribed DNA is integrated into the host’s DNA with the help of integrase.
The viral DNA, called a provirus, hijacks human cells, turning them into virus-making factories.
Over tens of thousands of years, many retroviruses have left genomic elementsin human genome, contributing to evolutionary processes.
Example:
Syncytins are genes thought to have descended from ERVs and are crucial for placental development. These genes originally came from viruses and were acquired during mammalian evolution.
Their Contribution to Human Biology
ERVs are highly expressed in the placenta and may influence conditions like preeclampsia.
Researchers found that a particular RNA derived from an ERV is dysregulated in early-onset preeclampsia, suggesting it could be used as a biomarker for the condition.
ERVs play a role in cell-type differentiationduringembryo development.
A protein called MERVL-gag is derived from an ERV. This transition is crucial for producing pluripotent stem cells capable of forming different cell types.
Researchers also found that a human ERV element LTR10affects tumour formation in colorectal cancer.
PYQ:
[2021] Consider the following statements :
1. Adenoviruses have single-stranded DNA genomes whereas retroviruses have double-stranded DNA genomes.
2. Common cold is sometime caused by an adenovirus whereas AIDS is caused by a retrovirus.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Only by providing fair and broad access to data can we unlock AI’s full potential and ensure its benefits are shared equitably.
Present Scenario of ‘Data Race vs. Ethics’
Data Demand vs. Quality: The race for data has intensified as AI systems, particularly Large Language Models (LLMs), require vast amounts of high-quality data for training.
However, there is a growing concern that this demand may compromise ethical standards, leading to the use of pirated or low-quality datasets, such as the controversial ‘Books3’ collection of pirated texts.
What are Large Language Models (LLMs)?
Large Language Models (LLMs) are advanced AI systems that can understand and generate human-like text by learning from vast amounts of data, enabling a wide range of language-related applications.
Feedback Loops and Bias Amplification: The reliance on existing datasets can create feedback loops that exacerbate biases present in the data.
As AI models are trained on flawed datasets, they may perpetuate and amplify these biases, resulting in skewed outputs that reflect an unbalanced and often Anglophone-centric worldview.
Ethical Considerations: The urgency to acquire data can overshadow ethical considerations. This raises questions about the fairness and accountability of AI systems, as they may be built on datasets that do not represent the diversity of human knowledge and culture.
Challenges towards the Sources
Lack of Primary Sources: Current LLMs are primarily trained on secondary sources, which often lack the depth and richness of primary cultural artefacts.
Important primary sources, such as archival documents and oral traditions, are frequently overlooked, limiting the diversity of data available for AI training.
Underutilization of Cultural Heritage: Many repositories of cultural heritage, such as state archives, remain untapped for AI training.
These archives contain vast amounts of linguistic and cultural data that could enhance AI’s understanding of humanity’s diverse history and knowledge.
Digital Divide: The digitization of cultural heritage is often deprioritized, leading to a lack of access to valuable data that could benefit AI development.
This gap in data availability disproportionately affects smaller companies and startups, hindering innovation and competition with larger tech firms.
Case Studies from Italy and Canada
Italy’s Digital Library Initiative: Italy allocated €500 million from its ‘Next Generation EU’ package to develop a ‘Digital Library’ project aimed at making its rich cultural heritage accessible as open data. However, this initiative has faced setbacks and deprioritization, highlighting the challenges of sustaining investment in cultural digitization.
Canada’s Official Languages Act: This policy, once criticized for being wasteful, ultimately produced one of the most valuable datasets for training translation software.
Conclusion: There is a need to implement robust ethical guidelines and standards for data collection and usage in AI training. These standards should ensure that datasets are sourced legally, represent diverse cultures and perspectives, and minimize biases. Encourage collaborations between tech companies, governments, and cultural institutions to develop and adhere to these guidelines.
The NPPA monitors the prices of scheduled as well as non-scheduled medicines under Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 (DPCO, 2013), informed the Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers.
What are Scheduled and Non-Scheduled Formulations?
[A] Scheduled Formulations:
Defined as formulations listed in Schedule-I of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 (DPCO, 2013).
Ceiling prices of these formulations are revised annually based on the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for the preceding calendar year.
National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) is responsible for revising and notifying these prices.
[B] Non-Scheduled Formulations:
Defined as formulations not included in Schedule-I of the DPCO, 2013.
Prices of these formulations can be increased by manufacturers, but the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) cannot be increased by more than 10% during the preceding 12 months.
NPPA also monitors the prices of non-scheduled formulations to ensure compliance.
Action is taken against companies selling formulations at prices higher than permissible, and overcharged amounts are recovered.
About National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA)
NPPA was set up as an independent regulator on August 29, 1997, for drug pricing and ensuring affordable access to medicines.
It is an attached office of the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP), Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers.
NPPA is not a Statutory or Constitutional Body.
It is responsible for implementing and enforcing the provisions of the DPCO.
Functions of NPPA:
Fixation and revision of prices of ‘Scheduled’ drugs under Drug (Price Control) Orders.
Scheduled drugs (15% of the pharma market) are allowed an increase based on WPI.
Non-scheduled drugs (85% of the pharma market) are allowed an automatic 10% increase annually.
Monitoring and enforcement of drug prices.
Ensuring availability and accessibility of all medicines and medical devices, including non-scheduled drugs.
Undertaking or sponsoringstudies on drug pricing.
Collecting and maintaining data on production, exports, imports, market share, and profitability of pharmaceutical companies.
Advising the Central Government on changes or revisions in drug policy.
Back2Basics:Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO)
The DPCO is an order issued by the Government of India under Sec. 3 of Essential Commodities Act, 1955 to regulate the prices of drugs.
The Order provides the list of price controlled drugs, procedures for fixation of prices of drugs, method of implementation of prices fixed by Govt., penalties for contravention of provisions etc.
Under the provisions of DPCO 2013, only the prices of drugs that figure in the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) are monitored and controlled by the regulator, the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority.
Essential medicines are those that satisfy the priority healthcare needs of the majority of the population.
PYQ:
[2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?
The emergence of artificial intelligence has revolutionized various facets of our lives and has even prompted us to reevaluate our concepts of the mind, brain, and consciousness.
Antithesis of Machine Learning (ML):
Machine Unlearning (MUL) is considered the antithesis of Machine Learning (ML). It was first proposed by Cao and Yang in their work “Towards Making Systems Forget with Machine Unlearning.”
Machine Unlearning focuses on the ability to make AI models forget specific data they have learned. This concept addresses the challenges of removing or correcting sensitive, false, incorrect, or outdated information from trained AI models.
While ML is about learning from data to make predictions or decisions, MUL aims to reverse this process, ensuring that certain data can be effectively and completely erased from the models.
This concept is crucial for maintaining data privacy, reducing AI bias, and complying with regulations that require the deletion of personal or sensitive information.
Implementation approaches
Private Approach: Data fiduciaries voluntarily implement MUL algorithms, allowing flexibility but potentially limiting access for smaller companies due to cost and expertise barriers.
Public Approach: Governments can legislate requirements for MUL implementation, potentially creating a standard framework that data fiduciaries must follow. This can include guidelines under existing data protection laws, as seen in the EU’s AI Act, which addresses data poisoning and mandates security controls.
International Approach: This emphasizes the need for a global framework for MUL, recognizing that AI innovations have cross-border implications. International standard-setting organizations could play a crucial role in developing these standards
Techniques for Machine Unlearning
Exact Unlearning: This method completely removes the influence of specific data points from the model.
Approximate Unlearning: Instead of fully erasing the data’s influence, this technique minimizes its impact on the model’s predictions to an acceptable level.
Data-Centric Approaches: Techniques like data reorganization and pruning are employed to manage the dataset, making it easier to identify and remove unwanted data points.
Model-Centric Approaches: These methods involve manipulating the model parameters directly. For example, algorithms can adjust the weights associated with the data points that need to be forgotten, thereby reducing their influence on the model’s outputs.
Prompting-Based Methods: In large language models (LLMs), developers can use carefully crafted prompts to induce behaviours that mimic unlearning.
Algorithmic Innovations: New algorithms, such as MU-Mis, focus on minimizing the contribution of specific data points to the model’s decision-making process.
Way forward:
Development of Standardized Frameworks: The need to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for MUL can facilitate its adoption across various sectors. Governments and international organizations should collaborate to create guidelines that mandate the use of MUL techniques for data privacy compliance, similar to the EU’s AI Act.
Investment in Research and Education: The need to increase funding and resources should be directed toward research in machine unlearning techniques and their applications.
Mains PYQ:
Q The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (2020)
Brazil has reported the first deaths from Oropouche fever.
About Oropouche Fever
Oropouche fever is a viral disease caused by the Oropouche virus.
The virus is transmitted primarily through the bites of infected midges, specifically the Culicoides paraensis, and mosquitos.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported the first-ever outbreak in Cuba on June 11, 2024.
Symptoms:
Symptoms are similar to those of dengue fever and typically begin between four to eight days after the bite.
Common symptoms include:
Sudden onset of fever
Headaches
Body aches
Chills
Joint stiffness
Nausea and vomiting (occasionally)
Most patients recover within seven days, and severe cases are rare.
There is no evidence of human-to-human transmission.
Treatment and Prevention
There is no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for Oropouche fever.
Treatment is usually symptomatic, focusing on relieving fever and pain.
Preventative measures include avoiding bites from midgesand mosquitos by using repellents, wearing protective clothing, and using insect nets.
PYQ:
[2010] Widespread resistance of malarial parasites to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine?
(a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium
(b) Man does not develop immunity to malaria during natural infection
(c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria
(d) Man is only an intermediate host and not the definitive host
Scientists from the “CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology” have developed an enhanced genome-editing system using FnCas9that can modify DNA more precisely and more efficiently than existing CRISPR-based technologies.
CRISPR occurs naturally in some bacteria, as a part of their immune system that limits infections by recognizing and destroying viral DNA.
What is FnCas9?
FnCas9 is a variant of the Cas9 enzyme derived from the bacterium Francisella novicida.
It is used in genome editing technologies, particularly within the CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) system, to make precise modifications to DNA sequences.
What is CRISPR-Cas9 System?
CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary genome-editing tool adapted from a natural bacterial defense mechanism against viruses.
Bacteria use CRISPR sequences to store segments of viral DNA, which helps them recognize and combat viruses in subsequent infections.
The most commonly usedCas9 enzyme is derived from Streptococcus pyogenes.
Mechanism:
Guide RNA (gRNA): A specifically designed RNA molecule that matches the target DNA sequence.
Cas9 Enzyme: Acts as molecular scissors that cut DNA at a location specified by the gRNA.
Proto-spacer Adjacent Motif (PAM): A short DNA sequence adjacent to the target site that Cas9 must recognize and bind to in order to cut the DNA.
DNA Repair: Once the DNA is cut, the cell’s natural repair mechanisms either repair the break or introduce desired genetic changes.
Applications:
Agriculture: Enhancing crop yield and nutritional value.
Healthcare: Diagnosing and treating genetic disorders.
Research: Studying gene functions and interactions.
Challenges with Traditional Cas9: SpCas9 can sometimes cut DNA at unintended sites, leading to potential unintended genetic modifications.
How FnCas9 overpowers traditional Cas9 (SpCas9)?
FnCas9 is known for its higher specificityin targeting DNA sequences compared to SpCas9, resulting in fewer off-target effects.
More accurate targeting reduces unintended genetic modifications.
It ensures more reliable and safer genome editing.
Achievements by Indian Scientists
Scientists at the CSIR-IGIB in New Delhi have modified FnCas9 to enhance its efficiency without compromising specificity.
Key Modifications include:
Amino Acid Tinkering: Researchers modified amino acids in FnCas9 that interact with the PAM sequence to increase binding affinity.
Improved Binding: Enhanced binding affinity allows FnCas9 to sit more securely on the DNA, improving gene-editing effectiveness.
Flexibility: The enhanced FnCas9 can access and edit hard-to-reach regions of the genome.
Experimental Results:
Enhanced FnCas9 cuts target DNA at a higher rate than the unmodified version.
FnCas9 improved ability to detect single-nucleotide changes in the genome, broadening its diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
PYQ:
[2019] What is Cas9 protein that is often mentioned in news?
(a) A molecular scissors used in targeted gene editing
(b) A biosensor used in the accurate detection of pathogens in patients
(c) A gene that makes plants pest-resistant
(d) A herbicidal substance synthesized in genetically modified crops
[2016] In the context of the developments in Bioinformatics, the term ‘transcriptome’, sometimes seen in the news, refers to:
(a) a range of enzymes used in genome editing
(b) the full range of mRNA molecules expressed by an organism
(c) the description of the mechanism of gene expression
(d) a mechanism of genetic mutations taking place in cells
Scientists reported on July 22 in Nature Geoscience that an unknown process is generating oxygen in the deep oceans, where photosynthesis is not possible due to the lack of light.
About the recent study:
Discovery of Oxygen: Scientists reported an unknown process producing oxygen in the deep ocean, specifically in the abyssal zone, where photosynthesis is not feasible due to insufficient sunlight.
Location of Study: The study was conducted in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located off Mexico’s west coast, which is known for having the highest concentration of polymetallic nodules.
Oxygen Measurement: At a depth of 4 km, researchers observed unexpected increases in oxygen levels, sometimes tripling within two days, contrary to expectations of decreasing levels due to consumption by marine life.
Source of Oxygen: The researchers hypothesized that the oxygen could be generated by polymetallic nodules, which may create electric charges that split water molecules, releasing oxygen. The nodules exhibited voltages up to 0.95 V, suggesting they could function like battery cells.
What is Deep-Sea Mining?
Deep-Sea Mining: It involves extracting minerals from the ocean floor at great depths, targeting resources such as polymetallic nodules, polymetallic sulphides, and cobalt-rich ferromanganese crusts.
Economic and Strategic Importance of Deep-sea Mining:
Resource Potential: The Clarion-Clipperton Zone holds substantial reserves, including 6 billion tonnes of manganese, and over 200 million tonnes each of copper and nickel, making it a significant target for future mining operations.
International Contracts: The International Seabed Authority has granted exploration contracts to various contractors, including the Government of India, for deep-sea mining activities.
What is Dark Oxygen?
“Dark oxygen” refers to the oxygen found in the deep ocean, specifically in regions where photosynthesis cannot occur due to the absence of sunlight. In such areas, known as the abyssal zone, oxygen levels are typically low and depend on global ocean circulation for replenishment.
Impact of Deep-Sea Mining
Ecological Concerns:
Potential Damage: The recent findings highlight the potential risks of deep-sea mining to unique marine ecosystems that depend on ‘dark oxygen’. There is concern that mining could disrupt these ecosystems, leading to significant and possibly irreversible environmental impacts.
Historical Evidence: Previous experiments, such as the DISCOL Experiment, have shown long-term ecological damage from simulated mining activities, including reduced biodiversity and altered sedimentological profiles.
Industry Response and Challenges:
Insurance Withdrawal: In response to growing concerns, major European insurance companies announced they would exclude deep-sea mining from their underwriting portfolios.
Sustainability Issues: The new discovery of ‘dark oxygen’ adds complexity to the debate on deep-sea mining. If sustainable practices are not implemented, such mining could become unfeasible due to its potential negative impacts on marine ecosystems.
Way forward:
Develop Comprehensive Environmental Regulations: The Government should establish and enforce robust environmental regulations and impact assessment protocols for deep-sea mining.
Promote Sustainable Mining Practices: Need to invest in research and innovation to develop and implement technologies and methods that minimize environmental impact.
Mains PYQ:
Q Coastal sand mining, whether legal or illegal, poses one of the biggest threats to our environment. Analyse the impact of sand mining along the Indian coasts, citing specific examples. (2019)
Q1 National Education Policy 2020 is in conformity with the Sustainable Development Goal-4 (2030). It intends to restructure and reorient the education system in India. Critically examine the statement. (UPSC IAS/2020)
Q2 The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country. Discuss. (UPSC IAS/2015)
Prelims: Q Consider the following statements: 1. As per the Right to Education (RTE) Act, to be eligible for appointment as a teacher in a State, a person would be required to possess the minimum qualification laid down by the concerned State Council of Teacher Education. 2. As per the RTE Act, for teaching primary classes, a candidate is required to pass a Teacher Eligibility Test conducted in accordance with the National Council of Teacher Education guidelines. 3. In India, more than 90% of teacher-5 education institutions are directly under the State Governments. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 (d) 3 only
Note4Students:
Prelims: UDISE+ platform;
Mains:Purpose and Scope of UDISE+;
Mentor comments: The Indian education system is one of the largest globally, encompassing various levels from pre-primary to higher secondary. It includes approximately 1.5 million schools, 9.7 million teachers, and nearly 265 million students. The system follows a “10+2” structure, mandating ten years of schooling before higher education. While it aims to provide quality education, challenges such as disparities between urban and rural areas, rote learning emphasis, and gender inequality persist. Recent reforms, including the National Education Policy, seek to enhance access, quality, and equity in education across the country.
Let’s learn —
Why in the News?
To effectively manage India’s extensive education system, the Ministry of Education developed the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) platform in 2018.
Purpose and Scope of UDISE+
UDISE+ collects real-time information from all recognized and unrecognized schools providing formal education from pre-primary to Class XII. This includes data on school infrastructure, teacher qualifications, student enrollment, and academic performance.
The system utilizes an online DCF( Data collection form) that simplifies data entry and ensures accuracy. Schools are required to upload their data online, which is validated through inbuilt checks.
UDISE+ has become the official statistics system for the Ministry of Education, covering over 1.5 million schools, approximately 9.5 million teachers, and more than 260 million students. This extensive database supports effective planning and resource allocation in the education sector.
Features and Improvements
Real-Time Updates: Since its inception, UDISE+ has transitioned from manual data entry to a digital platform, allowing for real-time updates and more efficient data management.
Unique Identifiers: Each school is assigned a UDISE code, serving as a unique identifier that facilitates the tracking and management of educational data at a national level.
Enhanced Data Categories: The platform includes new data categories such as pre-primary education, sports facilities, library resources, and ICT infrastructure, which were not comprehensively covered in earlier systems.
Regulatory and Compliance Considerations
Data Sharing and Privacy: The Ministry of Education has emphasized the importance of a data-sharing policy for educational data. However, the implementation of this policy must align with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, which requires clear guidelines on parental consent and the legitimate use of personal data.
Collaboration with Ed-Tech Companies: UDISE+ data is shared with various stakeholders, including ed-tech companies and state governments, to enhance educational outcomes. This collaboration necessitates strict adherence to data protection regulations to ensure student privacy
The three-part test established by the Supreme Court in the landmark case of Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) v. Union of India (2018) is essential for evaluating state actions that may infringe on the right to privacy.
Three Conditions of the Test
Legitimate State Interest: There must be a valid and legitimate interest that justifies the restriction of the right to privacy. This means that the state must demonstrate a clear purpose for the action it is taking.
Necessity and Proportionality: The restriction imposed must be necessary and proportionate to achieve the stated interest. This condition ensures that the means employed by the state are appropriate and not overly broad or invasive.
Legal Basis: Any restriction on the right to privacy must be enacted through law. This emphasizes the need for a legal framework that governs the state’s actions, ensuring accountability and adherence to due process.
Need for Standard Operating Procedures
Technical and Legal Framework: There is an urgent need for standard operating procedures that encompass both technical and legal aspects under a comprehensive governance framework. This would ensure data authenticity and clarify legal obligations for stakeholders.
Conscientious Data Sharing: Establishing specific protocols will promote responsible sharing, usage, and retention of children’s personal data, ensuring that such actions are conducted lawfully and securely.
Conclusion: The UDISE+ platform collects extensive educational data, but its integration with Aadhaar and collaboration with ed-tech companies require clear protocols aligned with privacy laws to ensure responsible data handling and protect student rights.
Google is in the news due to its recent annual environment report, which revealed a 13% increase in its emissions footprint for 2023 compared to the previous year.
Why Emissions are higher?
Increased Electricity Consumption: Google reported a 13% increase in its emissions footprint in 2023, primarily due to a 17% rise in electricity consumption in its data centres.
Energy-Intensive AI Operations: AI models require significantly more computational power than traditional searches, leading to higher energy consumption. For instance, a single AI query can use 10 to 33 times more energy than a standard Google search.
Cooling Demands: The increased workload from AI operations generates more heat, necessitating stronger cooling systems in data centers leading to a high demand of water.
Indian Scenario
Growing Demand for Data Centers: As AI and data center deployment increases in India, the environmental impact, particularly in terms of electricity and water consumption, is expected to rise.
Water Resource Strain: Data centers require significant water for cooling. For example, a data center serving OpenAI’s GPT-4 model reportedly consumed 6% of its district’s water supply in Iowa, highlighting there could be potential challenges in water-scarce regions like India.
Need for Sustainable Practices: The experts advise the importance of planning AI and data center expansion in India to minimize environmental impacts. Companies must adopt efficient processes to reduce their emissions footprint.
The initiative taken by Govt to regulate AI
National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence: In 2018, NITI Aayog released a discussion paper outlining India’s National Strategy for AI.
Draft Personal Data Protection Bill: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released a draft Personal Data Protection Bill in 2019 which had provisions related to data used for AI systems.
Ethical AI Principles: In 2021, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) released a set of “Ethical AI Principles” as part of India’s AI governance framework
Regulatory Sandbox for AI: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has created a regulatory sandbox to test AI applications in the financial sector.
AI Skilling and Research: The government has launched initiatives like the National AI Portal, AI Hackathons, and AI Research, Analytics and Knowledge Assimilation (AIRAWAT) to promote AI research and skills in the country.
Alternatives for Government Action (Way Forward)
Promote Energy Efficiency: The government can encourage data centers to adopt energy-efficient technologies and practices. This includes optimizing cooling systems and utilizing renewable energy sources to power operations.
Regulatory Framework: Need to implement regulations that require data centres to report their energy and water consumption can help monitor and manage their environmental impact.
Investment in Renewable Energy: The government should promote the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, to power data centers.
Research and Development: Government should support R&D in sustainable AI technologies and energy-efficient data processing can help mitigate the environmental impact of AI deployment.
Public Awareness Campaigns: The need to educate businesses and the public about the environmental impacts of AI and data centres can foster more sustainable practices and encourage responsible usage of technology.
Mains PYQ:
Q The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss (UPSC IAS/2020)
US space agency NASA’s Cassini-Huygens spacecraft launched in October 1997.
Using Cassini’s radar data, scientists from Cornell University have discovered new information about the liquid ocean on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.
Observations made about Titan
Titan is composed ofhydrocarbons – organic chemicals consisting of carbon and hydrogen.
The astronomers have reportedly located calm seas of methane with a slow tidal current.
About Cassini-Huygens Mission
The Cassini-Huygens mission was a collaborative project between NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Italian Space Agency (ASI) to explore Saturn and its moons.
The spacecraft was named after astronomers Giovanni Cassini and Christian Huygens.
The mission consisted of the Cassini orbiter and the Huygens probe.
It was launched on October 15, 1997.
It ended its mission on September 15, 2017 by plunging into Saturn’s atmosphere.
Key Achievements:
Saturn Exploration:
Detailed study of Saturn’s atmosphere, rings, and magnetosphere.
Discovered new rings and observed the complex structure of the existing ones.
Moons of Saturn:
Titan Exploration: Huygens probe successfully landed on Titan, Saturn’s largest moon, on January 14, 2005, providing the first direct exploration of Titan’s surface and atmosphere.
Enceladus Discoveries: Found water-ice plumes erupting from Enceladus, indicating a subsurface ocean that could potentially harbor life.
Other Moons: Provided detailed images and data on other moons like Lapetus, Rhea, Dione, and Tethys.
Technological Milestones:
Demonstrated the success of long-duration missions in deep space.
Advanced the understanding of spacecraft navigation and operation in complex planetary environments.
PYQ:
[2014] Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?
Spacecraft
Purpose
1.
Cassini-Huygens
Orbiting the Venus and transmitting data to the Earth
2.
Messenger
Mapping and investigating the Mercury
3.
Voyager 1 and 2
Exploring the outer solar system
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
![[27th July 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Using children’s personal data legally and securely](https://www.civilsdaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/27-july-1568x882.jpg)