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  • India, USA signed pact to set up Semiconductor Pact for National Security

    Why in the News?

    India and the US have entered into an agreement to establish a semiconductor fabrication plant aimed at producing chips for national security, next-generation telecommunications, and green energy applications.

    Key Features of the Semiconductor Fabrication Plant

    • The semiconductor fab will focus on advanced sensing, communication, and power electronics.
    • The India Semiconductor Mission will support the project and involves a strategic partnership between Bharat Semi, 3rdiTech, and the US Space Force.
    • The plant will manufacture infrared, gallium nitride, and silicon carbide semiconductors, critical components for national security and commercial sectors.

    Shakti Partnership

    • The fab, titled “Shakti” (meaning power), is the first-ever technology partnership between Indian businesses and the US Space Force, and the first of its kind in the Quad, a strategic forum comprising India, the US, Japan, and Australia.
    • The project will focus on three key areas essential for modern warfare:
    1. Advanced sensing
    2. Advanced communications
    3. High-voltage power electronics
    • These areas also have significant applications in commercial sectors such as railways, telecom infrastructure, data centers, and green energy.

     

    About India’s Semiconductor Mission (ISM):

    Details
    Launch Year 2021
    Financial Outlay ₹76,000 crore under the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY)
    Objective • Develop a sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem in India
    • Reduce reliance on imports
    • Position India as a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing
    Core Focus Financial support for investments in:
    – Semiconductor fabs
    – Display fabs
    – Semiconductor design
    – Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP) facilities
    Components of ISM
    Scheme for Semiconductor Fabs • Provides fiscal support for setting up semiconductor wafer fabrication (fabs) facilities
    • Aims to attract large investments for semiconductor fabs in India
    Scheme for Display Fabs • Offers fiscal support for setting up TFT LCD/AMOLED display fabs
    • Encourages investments in display fabrication technologies
    Scheme for Compound Semiconductors • Provides 30% capital expenditure support for setting up Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics, Sensors, and ATMP/OSAT facilities
    Design Linked Incentive (DLI) Scheme • Offers financial incentives and design infrastructure support for semiconductor design

     

    Significance of Next-Generation Telecom

    • Next-gen telecom (5G and beyond) will revolutionize industries with high-speed internet, IoT, AI, and smart infrastructure.
    • It is crucial for national security, economic competitiveness, and advancing green energy and sustainable development.
    • India’s adoption of 5G will drive innovation across sectors, promoting technological self-reliance and global leadership in telecommunications.

  • Global Cybersecurity Index, 2024

    Why in the News?

    • India has achieved Tier 1 status in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) 2024, published by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
      • With a score of 98.49 out of 100, India is now among the top nations demonstrating role-model cybersecurity practices.

    About Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI):

    Details
    Launch  2015, by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

    About ITU

    • Founded on 17 May 1865 as the International Telegraph Union
    • Presently has 193 member states, with South Sudan joining most recently in 2011
    • India became a member in 1869
    Objective • Measures the commitment of countries to cybersecurity based on five pillars.
    • Helps identify areas for improvement and encourages capacity and capability building.
    Five Pillars • Legal: Laws and regulations on cybercrime and cybersecurity
    • Technical: Implementation of technical capabilities via national and sector-specific agencies
    • Organizational: National strategies and organizations implementing cybersecurity
    • Capacity Development: Awareness, training, education, and incentives for cybersecurity
    • Cooperation: Partnerships between agencies, firms, and countries
    Strengths and Weaknesses • Most countries are strongest in the Legal pillar.
    • The Capacity Development and Technical pillars are where most countries are weakest.
    GCI 2024 Five-Tier Analysis • Tier 1 (Role-modelling): Score of 95-100
    • Tier 2 (Advancing): Score of 85-95
    • Tier 3 (Establishing): Score of 55-85
    • Tier 4 (Evolving):

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] In India, under cyber insurance for individuals, which of the following benefits are generally covered, in addition to payment for the loss of funds and other benefits?

    1. Cost of restoration of the computer system in case of malware disrupting access to one’s computer

    2. Cost of a new computer if some miscreant willfully damages it, if proved so.

    3. Cost of hiring a specialized consultant to minimize the loss in case of cyber extortion

    4. Cost of defence in the Court of Law if any third-party files a suit

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 4 only

    (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

    (c) 2 and 4 only

    (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

  • Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

    Why in the News?

    In 2019, MRSA caused over 100,000 deaths, and although vancomycin has been the main treatment for 40 years, a new study shows it may not stay effective for long.

    About Vancomycin

    • Vancomycin is an antibiotic that has been a cornerstone in the treatment of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections for over 40 years.
    • It is a glycopeptide antibiotic that works by inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls, making it particularly effective against gram-positive bacteria like MRSA.
    • It has remained effective against MRSA due to its ability to target bacteria that have become resistant to other antibiotics like methicillin.
    • For decades, vancomycin has been the first-line treatment for severe MRSA infections, such as those affecting the bloodstream, heart, bones, and lungs.

    How Vancomycin is losing its effectiveness against MRSA?

    MRSA rarely develops resistance to vancomycin, but when it does, it leads to the emergence of vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (VRSA).

    • Resistance Mechanism: When S. aureus acquires the vanA operon, a gene cluster responsible for vancomycin resistance, it can resist the antibiotic. However, this resistance usually comes with a fitness cost—the bacteria tend to grow slower, making them less virulent.
    • Fitness Compensation: Recent research shows that S. aureus can evolve to overcome this fitness cost, allowing VRSA to grow faster and remain resistant even in the absence of vancomycin. This adaptation means the bacteria are less likely to lose their resistance and can spread more easily.
    • Mutations: The study found that additional mutations in the VRSA strains exposed to vancomycin helped the bacteria adapt and maintain resistance. These mutations made the bacteria more fit, ensuring they could thrive even in the presence of vancomycin.
    • Diminishing Options: As VRSA continues to adapt, vancomycin may no longer be reliable for treating MRSA infections. This raises concerns about the long-term viability of the antibiotic, prompting the need for new treatment strategies.

    PYQ:

    [2014] 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.

  • Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)

    Why in the News?

    The Supreme Court has dismissed the curative petitions filed by major telecom service providers, seeking relief from the 2019 judgment regarding Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues.

    What is Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR)?

    • AGR is the usage and licensing fee that telecom operators are charged by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
    • It forms the basis for calculating telecom companies’ dues to the government, including the license fee and spectrum usage charges (SUC).
    • The AGR is divided into:
    1. Spectrum Usage Charges (SUC): These are pegged at 3-5% of AGR, depending on the telecom company’s spectrum holdings.
    2. License Fees: Telecom operators are required to pay 8% of their AGR as a license fee to the government.

    Contention over AGR Calculation

    • The DoT maintains that AGR should include all revenues earned by telecom companies, including non-telecom sources such as deposit interest, asset sales, and dividends.
    • Telecom operators, on the other hand, insist that AGR should only include revenues generated from core telecom services, excluding income from non-telecom sources like interest and capital gains.

    Legal Disputes on AGR

    1. Beginning of the Dispute (2005): The AGR saga began in 2005 when the Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI) challenged the government’s definition of AGR in court. The dispute centered on whether non-telecom revenue should be included in the AGR calculation.
    2. TDSAT Ruling (2015): In 2015, the Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) ruled in favor of telecom companies. TDSAT held that AGR should include only revenue from core telecom activities and exclude non-core sources such as rent, profit from the sale of assets, dividends, and interest income.
    3. Supreme Court Ruling (2019): Setting aside the TDSAT decision, the SC upheld the DoT’s definition of AGR on October 24, 2019, declaring that AGR must include all revenue sources, including non-telecom activities like interest and capital gains. This ruling significantly increased the financial liabilities of telecom companies, as they had to pay outstanding dues.

    Financial Impact of the AGR Ruling

    The Supreme Court ruling had serious financial implications for telecom companies:

    • Massive Liabilities: Telecom companies, especially Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel, faced huge financial liabilities. The ruling resulted in unpaid dues amounting to over ₹1.4 lakh crore, which included penalties and interest.
    • Vodafone Idea’s Crisis: Vodafone Idea, in particular, was hit hard by these liabilities and faced potential insolvency, with its future in the Indian telecom sector hanging in the balance.
    • Sector Consolidation: The financial pressure from the AGR liabilities led to the consolidation of the telecom sector, with smaller players exiting the market.

    PYQ:

    [2019] In India, which of the following review the Independent regulators in sectors like telecommunications, insurance, electricity, etc.?

    1. Ad Hoc Committees set up by the Parliament
    2. Parliamentary Department Related Standing Committees
    3. Finance Commission
    4. Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission
    5. NITI Aayog

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 and 2

    (b) 1, 3 and 4

    (c) 3, 4 and 5

    (d) 2 and 5

  • Nagaland’s King Chilli Festival

    Why in the News?

    The village of Seiyhama in Nagaland hosted the 3rd edition of the Naga King Chilli Festival, celebrating the importance of the Naga king chilli, one of the world’s hottest chillies.

    About Naga King Chilli

    • The Naga King Chilli, also known as Raja Mircha or Bhut Jolokia, is one of the world’s hottest chillies, with heat levels exceeding 1 million Scoville Heat Units (SHU).
    • It is primarily grown in the Northeast Indian states of Nagaland, Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh.
    • In 2006, it was certified by the Guinness World Records as the hottest chilli in the world, a title it held for several years.
    • In 2008, it received a GI tag, recognizing its unique origin and significance in the global spice market.
    • The chilli has a heat range of 800,000 to 1,041,427 SHU, making it significantly hotter than common chillies like the jalapeño, which has a SHU of 2,500 to 8,000.
    • Benefits offered:
      • Rich in capsaicin, it is known for its pain-relieving properties and potential health benefits, such as boosting metabolism, promoting heart health, and relieving pain and inflammation.
      • Traditionally, the chilli has been used to preserve food in Nagaland’s hot, humid climate, helping to extend the shelf life of food and reduce waste.
    • Cultivation:
      • The chilli is grown in bamboo groves using ancient cultivation methods.
      • Farming begins in December or January, with peak harvests in August and September.
      • Approximately 150 households in Seiyhama village, Nagaland, cultivate the Naga King Chilli, with the annual harvest reaching 14,000 kg, valued at ₹70 lakh.

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which of the following has/have been accorded ‘Geographical Indication’ status?

    1. Banaras Brocades and Sarees

    2. Rajasthani Daal-Bati-Churma

    3. Tirupathi Laddu

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 only 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • [pib] Pest-Control Pheromone Dispenser

    Why in the News?

    A new sustainable pheromone dispenser has been developed through a collaborative research project by scientists from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) and ICAR–National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (ICAR–NBAIR).

    What is the Pest-Control Pheromone Dispenser?

    Details
    What is it? A device designed to release pheromones that alter the behaviour of pests, primarily used in agriculture to control infestations and prevent crop damage.
    Developed By A collaborative project by scientists from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru, and ICAR–National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources (ICAR–NBAIR), India.
    How it Works
    • Releases synthetic pheromones that mimic natural insect signals.
    • Attracts pests to traps or disrupts mating cycles, preventing infestations.
    Technology
    • Uses mesoporous silica matrix technology for controlled release.
    • Ensures consistent pheromone release, independent of external factors like temperature.
    Benefits
    • Cost-effective: Fewer replacements of pheromones reduce overall costs.
    • Labor-saving: Longer intervals between replacements lower labor requirements.
    • Environmentally friendly: Reduces chemical pesticide use, promoting sustainable agriculture.
    • Increased efficacy: Stable release rate ensures effective pest control over extended periods.
    Scalability Suitable for both small-scale farms and large industrial agricultural operations, making it highly scalable.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] With reference to the Genetically Modified mustard (GM mustard) developed in India, consider the following statements:

    1. GM mustard has the genes of a soil bacterium that give the plant the property of pest-resistance to a wide variety of pests.

    2. GM mustard has the genes that allow the plant cross-pollination and hybridization.

    3. GM mustard has been developed jointly by the IARI and Punjab Agricultural University.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 3 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 2 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • Square Kilometer Array (SKA) becomes partially functional

    Why in the News?

    The Square Kilometer Array (SKA), the world’s largest radio telescope, has carried out its first observations, marking a major milestone.

    About Square Kilometer Array (SKA) Project:

    Details
    Project Overview SKA is a global project aimed at building the world’s largest radio telescope network to explore the universe, galaxies, dark matter, and extraterrestrial life.
    Construction Phases Two phases:

    1. SKA-Mid in South Africa operates in higher frequency ranges.
    2. SKA-Low in Australia operates in lower frequency ranges.

    Phase 1 (SKA- Mid) began in December 2022. Full operations expected by 2029.
    Headquarters Jodrell Bank Observatory, UK
    Site Locations Telescope arrays in Australia (low-frequency) and South Africa (mid-frequency).
    Design and Features
    • 197 parabolic radio antennae in South Africa
    • 131,072 low-frequency antennae in Australia

    These are capable of detecting faint radio signals from vast distances.
    Global Consortium 16 member countries, including Australia, South Africa, India, China, Japan, and several European nations.
    India’s Role
    • India’s Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (NCRA, TIFR) is a key partner
    • SKA India consortium (20+ institutions) involved in software, signal processing, and digital hardware development
    Key Technologies Advanced interferometer system using wave interference for data collection.
    Scientific Objectives
    • Explore galaxies at the edge of the universe
    • Study the ‘Dark Ages’ and phenomena like dark matter and dark energy
    • Search for extraterrestrial life
    Frequency Range Operates between 50 MHz to 15.4 GHz
    Global Collaboration Key collaboration among India, Australia, South Africa, Italy, and other member nations for data generation, analysis, and installation of antennas.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] Launched on 25th December, 2021, James Webb Space Telescope has been much in the news since then. What are its unique features which make it superior to its predecessor Space Telescopes? What are the key goals of this mission? What potential benefits does it hold for the human race?

    [2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:

    1. It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.

    2. It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter

    3. It is buried deep in the ice.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1 and 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3 only

  • White Revolution 2.0

    Why in the News?

    The Ministry of Cooperation unveiled White Revolution 2.0, focusing on empowering women farmers and creating job opportunities in the dairy cooperative sector.

    What is White Revolution 2.0?

    Details
    Objective Transforming India’s dairy sector by empowering women farmers, increasing milk production, and modernizing dairy infrastructure.
    Target  Increase procurement from the current 660 lakh litres per day to 1,000 lakh litres per day.
    Funding • Initial funding of ₹40,000 per Multi-Purpose Primary Agricultural Credit Society (PACS) by National Dairy Development Board.
    • Total outlay of ₹70,125 crore with full government budgetary support.
    Provisions and Features 1. Women Empowerment: Focus on empowering women in the dairy sector and strengthening women’s cooperatives.
    2. Increase in Milk Procurement: Aims to raise procurement by 50% over the next five years.
    3. Cooperative Infrastructure: 100,000 new and existing cooperative societies (district cooperative societies and Primary Agricultural Credit Societies) to be set up or enhanced.
    4. RuPay Kisan Credit Cards: Nationwide rollout for dairy farmers, with micro-ATMs at cooperative societies.
    5. Computerisation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies: 67,930 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies will be computerised for better management.
    Significance 1. Women Empowerment: Creates leadership opportunities for women in dairy, promoting gender equality.
    2. Boost to Rural Economy: Strengthening cooperatives and milk procurement will improve rural livelihoods.
    3. Improved Infrastructure: Modern technology, micro-ATMs, and computerisation will increase efficiency.
    4. Job Creation: Expanding cooperatives and modern practices will generate jobs for 130 million farmers.
    5. Malnutrition Reduction: Enhances dairy quality to combat malnutrition.
    6. Cooperative Modernisation: Focus on Artificial Intelligence and advanced technologies.
    7. Dairy Exports Boost: Improved production and quality to enhance India’s dairy exports.

     

    PYQ:

    [2017] Explain various types of revolutions, took place in Agriculture after Independence in India. How these revolutions have helped in poverty alleviation and food security in India?

  • Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

    Why in the News?

      • This year, Kerala faced a sudden surge in Amoebic Meningoencephalitis cases, caused by free-living amoebae (FLA) found in freshwater ponds, lakes, and rivers.
    • Kerala also saw a diverse range of amoebic infections, caused by Naegleria fowleri, Vermamoeba vermiforis, and Acanthamoeba.

    What is Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM)?

    • PAM is caused by the Naegleria fowleri, often referred to as the “brain-eating amoeba“. It destroys brain tissue, causing severe swelling and is fatal in most cases.
      • An amoeba is a type of cell or unicellular organism with the ability to alter its shape, primarily by extending and retracting pseudopods.
      • Higher temperatures of up to 115°F (46°C) are conducive to its growth and it can survive for short periods in warm environments.
    • The amoeba enters the body through the nose, typically during activities like swimming, and travels to the brain, causing severe damage.
    • PAM is also non-communicable.
    • Symptoms: Headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, hallucinations, and coma.
      • According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), most people with PAM die within 1 to 18 days after symptoms begin. It usually leads to coma and death after 5 days.

    Diagnosis and Treatment:

    • Currently, there are no established effective treatments for PAM.
    • Diagnosis involves PCR tests of cerebrospinal fluid, though detection can be challenging due to the rarity of PAM.
    • Treatment follows CDC guidelines, including miltefosine, Azithromycin, and Amphotericin B, with miltefosine recently procured by the State Health Department from Germany.
      • Medical interventions typically involve a combination of drugs, including amphotericin B, azithromycin, fluconazole, rifampin, miltefosine, and dexamethasone.

  • 100 Years of Harappan Civilization

    Why in the News?

    It has been 100 years since the discovery of the Harappan Civilization, announced by John Marshall on September 20, 1924.

    Harappa: Remains of a Civilization

    • The Harappan Civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, flourished between 2600 BCE and 1900 BCE, with earlier settlements dating back to 3200 BCE.
    • The origins of this civilisation are traced back to Mehrgarh in Balochistan, which dates to 7000 BCE.
    • It is considered one of the three earliest civilizations, alongside Egypt and Mesopotamia.
    • The civilization covered over 1.5 million sq. km, stretching across modern-day India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
    • Remains of the civilization include:
      • Well-planned cities with a grid layout, intersecting streets, and fortified structures.
      • Advanced drainage systems with underground sewers and covered drains, showing a strong emphasis on hygiene.
      • Granaries, warehouses, and dockyards, indicating the presence of structured trade and food storage mechanisms.
      • The discovery of seals made of steatite, often engraved with animals and an un-deciphered script, suggesting a sophisticated administrative system.
      • Craftsmanship in pottery, bead-making, terracotta figurines, metal artefacts, and weaving.
      • Water management systems such as reservoirs, wells, and baths, indicating an advanced understanding of hydraulic engineering.

    The Discoverers:

    • Two ASI archaeologists were credited with the discovery:
      • Daya Ram Sahni excavated Harappa in 1921-22, discovering seals, pottery, and beads.
      • Rakhal Das Banerji began excavating Mohenjo-daro in 1922, finding similar items such as seals and copper objects.
    • John Marshall noticed the similarity between the objects found at Harappa and Mohenjo-daro, despite the sites being 640 km apart.

    About the Mohenjo-daro Site:

    • Mohenjo-daro is one of the largest cities of the Harappan Civilization, located in the Sindh province of Pakistan, discovered in 1922 by Rakhal Das Banerji.
    • The city represents one of the finest examples of ancient urban planning:
      • Great Bath: A large, centrally located structure thought to be used for ritual bathing or religious ceremonies. It is considered one of the earliest public water tanks in history.
      • Granaries: Massive storage facilities near the citadel suggest an organized system of storing food for the community.
      • Citadel and Lower Town: The city was divided into a raised citadel for the ruling elite and a lower town for common people. Both areas had well-planned streets and residential complexes.
      • Drainage Systems: Mohenjo-daro featured covered drainage systems with individual toilets connected to the drainage network, showcasing an impressive public sanitation system.
      • Residential Buildings: Homes were built from uniform mud bricks, with courtyards and bathrooms, and were often multi-storied. The use of standardised brick sizes (ratio 1:2:4) and cubic weights showed their high degree of organisation.
    • Artefacts found at Mohenjo-daro include:
      • Seals with animal motifs and the un-deciphered Harappan script, believed to have been used for administrative or trade purposes.
      • Pottery and tools made of bronze and copper.
      • Terracotta figurines, jewellery, and toys that reflect a highly developed artistic culture.
      • Weights and measures based on a uniform standard, indicating the use of a standardized economic system.
    • The city’s streets were aligned north-south and east-west, cutting at right angles, allowing for efficient transportation, including bullock carts.
    • Mohenjo-daro is believed to have had trade links with Mesopotamia, as suggested by artefacts with Mesopotamian connections.

    PYQ:

    [2013] Which of the following characterizes/characterize the people of Indus Valley Civilization?

    1. They possessed great palaces and temples.

    2. They worshipped both male and female deities.

    3. They employed horse-drawn chariots in warfare.

    Select the correct statement/statements using the codes given below.

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 only

    (c) 1, 2 and 3

    (d) None of the statements given above is correct