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  • Madras High Court’s Interpretation of POSH Act, 2013

    Why in the News?

    Madras HC upheld the ‘Right to Report’ serious incidents of sexual harassment a time, rejecting the 3-month deadline under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act (POSH), 2013.

    • Long-term emotional and psychological damage on victims underscored the need for a broader application of the law.

    Right to Report under POSH Act, 2013

    • Case Background: The decision came while addressing a police officer’s petition to quash an enquiry report for alleged sexual assault against a female colleague.
    • Madras HC Reasoning: Serious allegations leading to “grave mental trauma” and “stress” constitute a “continuing offence” under POSH, allowing victims to report and investigate at any time.
    • Notable Observations: the Madras HC distinguished between isolated incidents and serious allegations like assault or molestation.
    1. Isolated Incidents: Must adhere to strict deadlines under POSH.
    2. Serious Allegations: Treated as continuous misconduct until addressed, allowing flexibility in reporting timelines due to fear of victimisation.

    What is the POSH Act?

    • The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act was passed in 2013.
    • It defined sexual harassment, laid down the procedures for a complaint and inquiry, and the action to be taken.
    • It broadened the Vishakha Guidelines, which were already in place.

    The POSH Act broadened these guidelines:

    • It mandated that every employer must constitute an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at each office or branch with 10 or more employees.
    • It lays down procedures and defines various aspects of sexual harassment, including the aggrieved victim, who could be a woman “of any age whether employed or not”, who “alleges to have been subjected to any act of sexual harassment”.
    • This meant that the rights of all women working or visiting any workplace, in any capacity, were protected under the Act.

    Definition of Sexual Harassment

    Under the 2013 law, sexual harassment includes “any one or more” of the following “unwelcome acts or behaviour” committed directly or by implication:

    • Physical contact and advances
    • A demand or request for sexual favours
    • Sexually coloured remarks
    • Showing pornography
    • Any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature.

    The Ministry of Women & Child Development has published a Handbook on Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace with more detailed instances of behaviour that constitutes sexual harassment at the workplace. These include, broadly:

    • Sexually suggestive remarks or innuendos; serious or repeated offensive remarks; inappropriate questions or remarks about a person’s sex life
    • Display of sexist or offensive pictures, posters, MMS, SMS, WhatsApp, or emails
    • Intimidation, threats, blackmail around sexual favours; also, threats, intimidation or retaliation against an employee who speaks up about these
    • Unwelcome social invitations with sexual overtones, commonly seen as flirting
    • Unwelcome sexual advances.

    Unwelcome behaviour

    • The Handbook says “unwelcome behaviour” is experienced when the victim feels bad or powerless; it causes anger/sadness or negative self-esteem. 
    • It adds unwelcome behaviour is one which is “illegal, demeaning, invading, one-sided and power based”.

    Circumstances amounting to SHW

    The Act mentions five circumstances that amount to sexual harassment implied or explicit:

    1. The promise of preferential treatment in her employment
    2. The threat of detrimental treatment
    3. Threat about her present or future employment status
    4. Interference with her work or creating an offensive or hostile work environment
    5. Humiliating treatment likely to affect her health or safety

    Procedure for complaint

    Description
    Filing a complaint The aggrieved victim has the option to file a complaint with the ICC, but it is not compulsory for the ICC to act.
    Assistance in filing a complaint Any member of the ICC must provide reasonable assistance to the victim in filing a written complaint.
    Filing a complaint on behalf of the victim If the victim is unable to file a complaint due to incapacity, death, or other reasons, her legal heir may file it on her behalf.
    The time limit for filing a complaint The complaint must be made within 3 months from the date of the incident
    Extension of time limit ICC has the authority
    Monetary settlement and conciliation Yes. It is possible.
    Forwarding complaint or initiating an inquiry Must be completed within 90 days.
    Confidentiality of information The act ensures the confidentiality of the woman’s identity, respondent’s identity, inquiry details, recommendations, and actions taken

    Requirements imposed on employers

    Description
    Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) Employers with more than 10 employees must establish an ICC to address sexual harassment complaints.
    Composition of ICC The ICC must include women employees, another employee, and a third-party member familiar with sexual harassment issues.
    Local Committee (LC) for smaller organizations Organizations with fewer than 10 employees must create an LC to receive complaints from the informal sector.
    Complaint filing process Women can file written complaints to either the ICC or LC within three to six months of the incident.
    Resolution methods The Act provides two resolution methods: conciliation between the parties involved or conducting an inquiry by the committee.
    Annual audit report Employers must file an annual audit report on sexual harassment complaints and take responsibility for conducting workshops, awareness programs, and orientation for ICC members.
    Non-compliance penalties Non-compliance with the Act can result in penalties, including fines.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space?

    [2014] We are witnessing increasing instances of sexual violence against women in the country. Despite existing legal provisions against it, the number of such incidences is on the rise. Suggest some innovative measures to tackle this menace.

    [2010] Two of the schemes launched by the Government of India for Women’s development are Swadhar and Swayam Siddha. As regards the difference between them, consider the following statements:

    1. Swayam Siddha is meant for those in difficult circumstances such as women survivors of natural disasters or terrorism, women prisoners released from jails, mentally challenged women etc.,whereas Swadhar is meant for holistic empowerment of women through Self Help Groups.
    2. Swayam Siddha is implemented through Local Self Government bodies or reputed Voluntary Organizations whereas Swadhar is implemented through the ICDS units set up in the states.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Unsolved issue of the Buddha Relics from Bavikonda

    Why in the News?

    • Ten years after the division of Telangana from united Andhra Pradesh, the distribution of antiquities, manuscripts, and cultural objects remains contentious.
      • The custody of objects like Buddha Relics from Bavikonda are part of this dispute.

    About Bavikonda Buddhist Complex

    • Bavikonda, a significant ancient Buddhist site dating from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD, is located along the Eastern Coastline of Andhra Pradesh near Visakhapatnam on the way to Bheemunipatnam.
    • It is located an ancient trade route linking Andhradesa with North India via Kalinga, along with its proximity to ancient ports.
    • The discovery of Roman silver coins further supports this historical context.
    • The site also features Buddhapada slabs intricately carved with Ashtamangala symbols, found on the platforms surrounding the Mahachaitya.

    About Buddha Relics from Bavikonda

    • The relics were discovered in 1993 during archaeological excavations conducted by the Andhra Pradesh Department of Archaeology and Museums (DAM).
    • These discoveries have significantly contributed to our understanding of the spread of Buddhism in the region during the post-Ashoka period along the Krishna River basin.
    • Nature of Relics:
    • The site at Bavikonda yielded several earthen vessels containing gold objects and precious beads.
    • These relics are believed to include corporeal remains (related to skull) of the Buddha, along with silver and gold caskets.
    • These were found alongside an earthen urn or receptacle (Samudgaka) containing ashy deposits and burnt charcoal.

    Noted Buddhavanam Sites in Andhra Region

    • Thotlakonda: Located near Visakhapatnam, Thotlakonda is another prominent Buddhist site dating back to the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. It consists of monastic complexes, stupas, chaityas, viharas, and a university. Excavations have revealed relics and artifacts indicating it was a major center for Buddhist learning and trade.
    • Salihundam: Situated near Srikakulam, Salihundam dates from the 2nd century BC to the 12th century AD. It features remnants of stupas, votive stupas, monastic complexes, and sculptures. The site is noted for its architectural and sculptural heritage, reflecting a blend of Buddhist and Hindu influences over centuries.
    • Pavurallakonda: Close to Bheemunipatnam, Pavurallakonda is a Buddhist hilltop monastery dating back to the 3rd century BC to the 2nd century AD. It includes viharas, chaityas, and relic caskets. The site offers panoramic views of the coastline, adding to its spiritual ambiance.
    • Ghantasala: Located near Krishna district, Ghantasala served as an ancient Buddhist site from the 2nd century BC to the 2nd century AD. It contains stupas, viharas, and relics that indicate its significance as a trading hub and center for Buddhist teachings.
    • Nagarjunakonda: Situated in the Guntur district, Nagarjunakonda is an island on the Krishna River that flourished from the 3rd century BC to the 3rd century AD. It boasts numerous Buddhist monasteries, stupas, chaityas, and sculptures. The site is renowned for its architectural grandeur and extensive archaeological findings.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015] Which of the following kingdoms were associated with the life of Buddha?

    1. Avanti
    2. Gandhara
    3. Kosala
    4. Magadha

    Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 2 and 3 only

    (c) 1, 3 and 4

    (d) 3 and 4 only

  • CIC upholds decision of Rashtrapati Bhavan on RTI query

    Why in the News? 

    • The Central Information Commission (CIC) upheld Rashtrapati Bhavan’s response to an RTI query regarding the number of times former President Kovind returned decisions by the Prime Minister/Union Council of Ministers for reconsideration.
      • The President’s Secretariat stated that no information was available on record regarding such returns.

    Back2Basics: Right to Information (RTI)

    • The RTI Act of 2005 grants Indian citizens the right to access government-held information, with exceptions.
    • Its goal is to enhance transparency and accountability in public authorities.
    • This Act replaced the earlier Freedom of Information Act of 2002.
    • RTI aligns with Freedom of Speech and Expression (Article 19) in India’s Constitution.

    About Central Information Commission (CIC)

    Details
    Establishment Set up under the Section 12 of the Right to Information Act, 2005.
    Function
    • Oversees implementation of RTI Act in Central Government and Union Territories.
    • Resolves complaints and decides appeals related to the Act.
    Headquarters New Delhi
    Composition
    • Chief Information Commissioner (CIC)
    • Up to 10 Information Commissioners (IC), (appointed by President on recommendation of PM-led Committee consisting Leader of Opposition and Cabinet Ministers.)
    Qualifications CIC and IC must be persons of eminence in public life with wide knowledge and experience in: Law, Science and Technology, Social Service, Management, Journalism, Mass Media, Administration, and Governance.

    NON-ELIGIBLITY: Members of Parliament or Legislature of any State or Union Territory, hold any office of profit, be connected with any political party, or carry on any business or profession.
    Tenure
    • CIC and IC hold office for such term as prescribed by Central Government or until they attain age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
    • NO Reappointment.
    • IC can be appointed as Chief Information Commissioner, but total tenure including term as IC should not exceed 5 years.
    Removal
    • President can remove CIC or IC on grounds like insolvency, conviction for moral turpitude, engaging in another office of profit, etc.
    • Removal for misbehaviour requires Supreme Court enquiry and recommendation.
    Salary & Conditions Salary, allowances, and service conditions determined by Central Government, cannot be varied to their disadvantage during service (After RTI Amendment Act,2019)
    How RTI amendment, 2019 has changed CIC?
    • Before the 2019 amendment to the RTI Act, ICs at the CIC held a 5-year fixed term and were considered equal in status to the Chief Election Commissioner and Supreme Court judges.
    • The 2019 amendments granted the Centre the power to alter these terms at its discretion.
    Functions
    • Receives and inquires into complaints related to RTI Act violations, including non-appointment of Public Information Officer, refusal or delay in information, unreasonable fees, incomplete or false information.
    • Submits annual report on Act’s implementation to Central Government, presented to Parliament.
    Powers
    • Can suo-moto order inquiries, summon persons, enforce oaths, access and inspect documents, receive evidence on affidavit, requisition public records, summon witnesses, and enforce compliance of decisions.
    • Can direct public authorities on information access, officer appointments, record management, training, and impose penalties or compensation for non-compliance.

     

    PYQ:

    [2018] The Right to Information Act is not all about citizens’ empowerment alone, it essentially redefines the concept of accountability. Discuss. (150 words)

    [2019] There is a view that the Officials Secrets Act is an obstacle to the implementation of RTI Act. Do you agree with the view? Discuss.

    [2020] “Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss.

  • What are the standards for awarding death sentence, the President’s ‘Mercy’ power?

    Why in the News?

    • The President of India has rejected a Mercy Petition to pardon a Pakistani terrorist.
      • The accused was one among the Lashkar-e-Tayyeba terrorists who attacked the Red Fort in 2000, killing two soldiers and a civilian guard.

    What is the process of Mercy Petition?

    • Step 1: The convict facing a death sentence can file a mercy petition within 7 days of the Supreme Court dismissing their appeal.
    • Step 2: The convict or their relative submits a written petition to the President or governor, citing grounds such as sole breadwinner, physical/mental health, perceived harshness of the law, or judicial errors.
    • Step 3: The petition is forwarded to the Ministry of Home Affairs for assessment and recommendations, including consultation with the relevant State government.
    • Step 4: Based on Home Ministry recommendations and the Council of Ministers’ advice, the President can accept or reject the mercy plea without a specified time limit.
    • Step 5: While governors cannot pardon death sentences, they can commute, remit, or reprieve sentences under their state’s executive powers for offences against state laws.

    Judiciary on Mercy Petitions:

      • Bachan Singh v. State of Punjab (1980): The Supreme Court, upheld the death penalty but set the stringent criteria. It emphasized that the death penalty should be awarded only in the “rarest of rare” cases when all mitigating circumstances are considered.
      • In Maru Ram v. Union of India (1981), the Supreme Court ruled that the power to grant pardons under Article 72 of the Constitution must be exercised based on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
      • In Kehar Singh vs Union of India (1989) case, the court asserted that presidential pardon is an act of grace, not a right that can be claimed. The exercise of this power is purely administrative and not subject to judicial review.
      • In the Dhananjoy Chatterjee vs State of West Bengal (1994) case, the Supreme Court clarified that the pardoning powers under Articles 72 and 161 of the Constitution can only be exercised by the Central and State Governments, respectively, and not autonomously by the President or Governor.
      • In Epuru Sudhakar & Anr. v. Government of Andhra Pradesh (2006), the Supreme Court ruled that the clemency powers of the President and Governor under Article 72 and Article 161 are subject to judicial review.
      • In Shatrugan Chauhan v. State of U.P. (2014), the appex court has also commuted the death sentence in cases of inordinate delay in deciding mercy petitions. The court commuted the sentence of one Gurmeet Singh after he spent 27 years in custody (and 21 years on death row). 
      • In Mohd. Afzal Guru vs State of Delhi (2014) case, the court-mandated a minimum 14-day gap between the rejection of a mercy petition and the execution of a death penalty, ensuring adequate time for legal recourse.
      • Report of the 262nd Law Commission (2015): Recommended abolishing the death penalty for all crimes except terrorism-related offenses and waging war.
      • In April 2023, the Supreme Court upheld the Mumbai High Court’s decision to commute the death sentence of a woman and her sister due to significant delays in deciding their mercy petitions.

    About Presidents’ Pardoning Powers under Article 72

    • According to Article 72, the President of India has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit, or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offense: In cases where the punishment or sentence is by a Court Martial;
      • According to Article 161, the Governor of a State has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit, or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to matters under the executive power of the State.
    • In the recent Supreme Court Ruling of 2021, the apex court held that the Governor of a state can pardon prisoners, including those on death row, even before they have served a minimum of 14 years of their prison sentence.

    Did you know?

    1. Pardon means completely absolving the person of the crime and letting him go free. The pardoned criminal will be like a normal citizen.
    2. Commutation means changing the type of punishment given to the guilty into a less harsh one, for example, a death penalty commuted to a life sentence.
    3. Reprieve means a delay allowed in the execution of a sentence, usually a death sentence, for a guilty person to allow him some time to apply for a Presidential Pardon or some other legal remedy to prove his innocence or successful rehabilitation.
    4. Respite means reducing the quantum or degree of the punishment to a criminal in view of some special circumstances, like pregnancy, mental condition etc.
    5. Remission means changing the time period of the punishment without changing its nature, for example reducing twenty years of rigorous imprisonment to ten years.

    Cases as specified by Art. 72

    In all cases where the punishment or sentence:

    1. is by a court-martial.
    2. is for an offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the Union extends.
    3. is a sentence of death.

    Nature of the Pardoning Power

    • The pardoning power of the president is not absolute.
    • At a procedural level, the apex court in Epuru Sudhakar & Anr. v. Government of Andhra Pradesh (2006) has held that the President’s power must be exercised based on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers and can be challenged on multiple grounds including that relevant material was not considered, the power was exercised based on political considerations, or there was no application of mind.
    • This has not been discussed by the Constitution but is the practical truth. Further, the constitution does not provide for any mechanism to question the legality of decisions of presidents or governors exercising mercy jurisdiction.

     

    PYQ:

    [2014] Instances of President’s delay in commuting death sentences have come under public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse.

  • In news: Nagarhole Tiger Reserve

    Why in the News?

    • Ashwatthama, a 38-year-old elephant, died of electrocution near Karnataka’s Nagarahole Tiger Reserve.
      • The High Court of Karnataka suo motu initiated a PIL petition to inquire about this incident attributed to a lack of care and diligence by concerned authorities.

    Nagarahole Tiger Reserve

    • Located in the Western Ghats in Karnataka; Spans over 643 square kilometers.
    • Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1955 and a tiger reserve in 1999.
    • Part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is recognised as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and a Project Tiger, Project Elephant reserve.
    • Managed by the Karnataka Forest Department with efforts focused on conservation, ecotourism, and community engagement.
    • The reserve is crisscrossed by several rivers such as the Kabini River, Lakshmana Tirtha River, and Moyar River.
      • Flora and Fauna: Known for its diverse ecosystem, including tropical and moist deciduous forests, home to a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, elephants, gaur, and several species of deer and birds.

    Protective Measures: Project Elephant

    • It was launched in the year 1992 as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with the following objectives:
      • To protect elephants, their habitat & corridors
      • To address issues of man-animal conflict
      • The welfare of captive elephants
    • It covers 23 states across India.
    • The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change provides financial and technical support to major elephant range states in the country through the project.
    • It contributed to the increase in the wild elephant population from around 25,000 in 1992 to about 30,000 in 2021.

    Status of Elephant Conservation in India

    Details
    Population Estimate
    • India hosts the largest population of wild Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus), with around 29,964 individuals,
    • Approximately 60% of the global population (2017 census).
    Leading States Karnataka holds the highest number of elephants, followed by Assam and Kerala.
    Conservation Status
    • IUCN Red List:  Endangered.
    • CMS: Appendix I.
    • Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I,
    • CITES: Appendix I.

     

    PYQ:

    [2020] With reference to Indian elephants, consider the following statements:

    1. The leader of an elephant group is a female.
    2. The maximum gestation period can be 22 months.
    3. An elephant can normally go on calving till the age of 40 years only.
    4. Among the States in India, the highest elephant population is in Kerala.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 and 2 only

    (b) 2 and 4 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

  • ‘Cold Lava’ Rivers flow in Philippines after Mount Canlaon eruption

    Why in the News?

    • After Mount Canlaon erupted in the Philippines, cold lava started flowing through streets and rivers.
      • It was followed by ashfall, and dangers like floods and mudflows downstream.

    What is Cold Lava?

    • Cold lava, also known as “lahar,” is a mixture of water and rock fragments that flows rapidly down the slopes of a volcano, often triggered by heavy rainfall or volcanic eruptions.
    • The mixture forms a concrete-like substance that destroys everything in its path.
    • This can also include smooth, glassy textures or rough and jagged textures.

    Another example of cold Lava in the world

    • Mount Merapi, Indonesia (2023): An eruption of Mount Merapi resulted in the deaths of at least 23 climbers and spewed ash up to 3,000 meters into the air, covering towns and villages

    How harmful is Cold Lava?

    • Rain can carry cold lava down the slopes of a volcano during an eruption and into the path of nearby towns or villages.
    • According to the United States Geological Survey, cold lava has the power to crush and bury things in its path.
    • It also moves quickly like wet concrete and is considered more destructive than hot lava.

    About Mount Canlaon

    • Mount Canlaon, located in the Philippines, is an active stratovolcano known for its frequent eruptions and volcanic activity.
    • It is situated on the island of Negros in the Visayas region of the Philippines.
    • It is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, known for its high volcanic activity.
    • It poses hazards such as ash fall, lava flows, pyroclastic flows, and lahars (mudflows) that can endanger nearby communities and agriculture.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] Discuss about the vulnerability of India to earthquake-related hazards. Give examples including the salient features of major disasters caused by earthquakes in different parts of India during the last three decades.

  • Cultural significance of Uttarakhand’s Joshimath and Kosiyakutoli 

    Why in the News?

    • The Centre approved the Uttarakhand government’s proposal to rename Joshimath tehsil to Jyotirmath and Kosiyakutoli tehsil to Pargana Shri Kainchi Dham.
      • This decision aims to enhance the religious and cultural significance of these areas, boosting their status as major destinations for religious tourism.

    About Jyotirmath 

    • Jyotirmath, also known as Jyotir Peeth, is one of the four cardinal mathas established by Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century to promote Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
    • Adi Shankaracharya performed penance under the Amar Kalpavriksha tree here, symbolising his attainment of divine knowledge (Jyoti).
    • Evolution to Joshimath:
      • Name Transition: Originally known as Jyotirmath, the town gradually adopted the name Joshimath over time, influenced by regional languages and dialects.
      • Cultural Evolution: The shift from Jyotirmath to Joshimath reflects a cultural and linguistic evolution rather than a specific historical event.

    About Adi Shankaracharya (c 788 CE-820 CE)

    Details
    Philosopher and Theologian Prominent advocate of ancient Hinduism, known as Sankara (Jagatguru).
    Birthplace Kaladi in Ernakulam, Kerala, soon to be declared a national monument.
    Guru Govinda Bhagavatpada, from whom he learned extensively.
    Philosophies Advocated Advaita Vedanta and established Dashanami Sampradaya.
    Advaita Vedanta
    • Non-dualistic philosophy asserts the identity of Atman (self) and Brahman (ultimate reality).
    • Maya (creative energy) of Brahman creates the world.
    • Liberation through understanding Brahman and overcoming Avidya (ignorance).
    Key Disciples Padmapada, Totakacharya, Hasta Malaka, and Sureshwara – played crucial roles in spreading his teachings.
    Contributions
    • Introduced the Shanmata system and restored the Dashanami structure.
    • Established four Mathas (monastic institutions) across India.
    • Authored commentaries on major Hindu scriptures and composed hymns.
    Mathas Established Sri Sringeri Sharada Peetam (Karnataka), Jyotir Matha (Uttarakhand),

    Kalika Matha (Gujarat), Govardhana Matha (Odisha).

     

    About Kosiyakutoli  

    • Kosiyakutoli, now renamed Pargana Shri Kainchi Dham, aligns with the identity of Neem Karoli Baba’s Kainchi Dham Ashram.
    • “Kosi” refers to the river flowing through the Nainital district, which is crucial for the local ecology and economy.
    • Association with Neem Karoli Baba:
      • The ashram, founded in 1962, continues to draw thousands of visitors annually, including prominent figures like Steve Jobs and Ram Dass.
    PYQ:

    [2014] Which one of the following pairs does not form part of the six systems of Indian Philosophy?

    (a) Mimamsa and Vedanta

    (b) Nyaya and Vaisheshika

    (c) Lokayata and Kapalika

    (d) Sankhya and Yoga

  • Kavli Prize, 2024 Announced

    Why in the News? 

    The winners of the 2024 Kavli Prize were announced, recognising achievements in astrophysics, neuroscience, and nanoscience.

    About Kavli Prize

    • The Kavli Prize celebrates outstanding achievements in astrophysics, neuroscience, and nanoscience.
    • It is established in honour of Norwegian-American businessman and philanthropist Fred Kavli (1927-2013).
    • Awarded biennially, the prize recognizes researchers whose work pushes the boundaries of human knowledge and enhances our understanding of the universe, the brain, and nanoscale phenomena.

    About Fred Kavli

    • Fred Kavli, born in Erejsford, Norway, immigrated to California in 1956 and quickly made a mark in the engineering field.
    • His entrepreneurial journey began in 1958 with the founding of Kavlico, a pioneering company known for its precision pressure sensors used across diverse industries, from aviation to consumer electronics.

    The Kavli Foundation:

    • In 2000, after selling Kavlico for $340 million, Fred Kavli established the Kavli Foundation.
    • This philanthropic organisation supports fundamental research aimed at improving global quality of life.
    • The foundation operates 20 institutes worldwide dedicated to astrophysics, neuroscience, nanoscience, and theoretical physics.

    Prize Structure and Prestige:

    1. Comparison with Nobel Prize: The Kavli Prize mirrors the Nobel Prize in its prestige and international recognition but differs by not limiting awards to achievements within the preceding year, allowing broader scope and longevity in selection criteria.
    2. Award Ceremony: Each Kavli Prize includes a $1 million cash award per field, a scroll, and a 7 cm diameter medal. The ceremony, held at the Oslo Concert Hall and attended by global scientific leaders, features a red-carpet event, emphasizing its significance in the scientific community.
    3. Selection Process:
    • Committees: Three international committees nominate and review candidates, providing a unanimous recommendation to the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters.
    • Nominees: Nominees come from prestigious institutions worldwide, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive evaluation process.

    Winners of the 2024 Kavli Prize:

    Field Winners Contributions
    Astrophysics David Charbonneau (Harvard University), Sara Seager (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) Pioneering methods for detecting atomic species in planetary atmospheres and measuring their thermal infrared emission, are crucial for identifying molecular fingerprints in atmospheres of exoplanets.
    Nanoscience Robert Langer (MIT), Armand Paul Alivisatos (University of Chicago), Chad Mirkin (Northwestern University) Langer: Nano-engineering for controlled drug delivery systems.

    Alivisatos: Development of semiconductor quantum dots for bio-imaging.

    Mirkin: Concept of spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) for applications in gene regulation and immunotherapy.
    Neuroscience Nancy Kanwisher (MIT), Winrich Freiwald (Rockefeller University), Doris Tsao (University of California, Berkeley) Mapping brain functions related to facial recognition using neuroimaging and neuronal recording techniques, identifying brain centers and neural architectures involved in face processing.

     

    PYQ:

    [2021] The Nobel Prize in Physics of 2014 was jointly awarded to Akasaki, Amano and Nakamura for the invention of Blue LEDs in the 1990s. How has this invention impacted the everyday life of human beings?

    [2018] Discuss the work of ‘Bose-Einstein Statistics’ done by Prof. Satyendra Nath Bose and show how it revolutionized the field of Physics.

    [2008] Nobel Prize-winning scientist James D. Watson is known for his work in which area? (2008)

    (a) Metallurgy

    (b) Meteorology

    (c) Environmental protection

    (d) Genetics

  • Longitude Prize on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

    Why in the News?

    Sysmex Astrego, a Sweden-based diagnostic company, won the £10 million Longitude Prize for developing a high-tech UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) test called the PA-100 AST System. 

    What is Antimicrobial Resistance?

    • Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites change so that medicines no longer work against them.
    • This makes infections harder to treat and can lead to more severe illness and even death.
    • AMR can occur naturally through genetic changes or when one type of microorganism picks up resistance from another.
    • It can also occur randomly due to mutations or when resistant genes spread between different organisms.
    • The main reasons for AMR are antibiotics incorrectly or too often, not having access to clean water and good hygiene, not doing enough to prevent infections, and people not knowing how to use antibiotics properly.

    Global Impact of AMR

    • Global Threat: Antibiotic-resistant infections caused nearly 1.3 million deaths in 2019, with projections to exceed cancer-related deaths by 2050.
    • Economic Impact: The global economy faces potential losses of up to 4 trillion by 2030 and 100 trillion by 2050 due to the AMR crisis.

    About the Longitude Prize

    • The Longitude Prize, valued at £8 million (₹85 crore), was recently awarded for its profound implications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
    • The prize launched in 2014, aims to revolutionize infection management globally.
    • Historical Context:  
      • Origins: Established in 1714 to solve the maritime longitude problem, demonstrating the critical need for accurate navigation.
      • Modern Application: The 21st-century Longitude Prize addresses pressing global challenges like AMR, incentivizing innovative solutions.
    • Goal of the Prize:
      •  Aims to replace current lab-based diagnostic methods with rapid tests that guide targeted antibiotic therapies, combating AMR effectively.

    About PA-100 AST System 

    • Technology Breakthrough: Developed by Sysmex Astrego, this system uses a phenotypic test that identifies UTI bacteria and performs antibiotic susceptibility testing in under 45 minutes.
    • Operation: A single-use cartridge processes less than half a milliliter of urine, using microfluidic traps and phase-contrast imaging in a shoe box-sized reader instrument.
    • Clinical Impact: Provides rapid “sensitive” or “resistant” results for antibiotics, aiding doctors in immediate, accurate treatment decisions at the point of care.

    Current Challenges in UTI Diagnosis

    • Limited Accuracy: Current options include urine dipstick tests for quick results but limited accuracy (50-60%) and lab cultures with 2-3 day turnaround times.
    • Impact on Treatment: Delayed diagnosis often leads to empirical antibiotic use, contributing to antibiotic resistance worldwide.

    Significance for India

    • Healthcare Burden: In India, millions seek treatment for UTIs annually, impacting lives and healthcare systems significantly.
    • Potential: Rapid, accurate point-of-care tests could revolutionize UTI management globally, saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.

    PYQ:

    [2014] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without a 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.

    [2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?

    1. Genetic predisposition of some people
    2. Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
    3. Using antibiotics in livestock farming
    4. Multiple chronic diseases in some people

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 and 2
    (b) 2 and 3 only
    (c) 1, 3 and 4
    (d) 2, 3 and 4

  • Lal Crater on Mars

    Why in the News?

    Back2Basics: International Astronomical Union (IAU)

    • The IAU was founded on July 28, 1919, during the Constitutive Assembly held in Brussels, Belgium.
    • Its creation was prompted by the need for international collaboration in astronomy, especially after the devastation caused by World War I.
    • It aims to promote and safeguard astronomy in all its aspects through international cooperation.
    • IAU is now headquartered in Paris, France.

    Major Activities and Initiatives

    • General Assembly: The IAU holds a general assembly every three years in varying parts of the world at which professional astronomers meet to discuss research, new cooperative ventures, and similar matters of professional interest.
    • Astronomical Nomenclature: IAU standardises the nomenclature of celestial bodies, features, and phenomena. It maintains several working groups dedicated to naming conventions for stars, planets, asteroids, and other objects.
    • Research and Collaboration: It promotes international cooperation in astronomical research and supports initiatives such as observational campaigns, data sharing, and joint projects.
    • Education and Outreach: It is actively involved in promoting astronomy education and public outreach efforts worldwide. It supports educational programs, workshops, and resources for students, teachers, and the general public.

    Membership

    1. IAU membership spans 92 countries. Out of those countries, 85 are National Members.
    2. India is represented by the Astronomical Society of India (ASI).
    3. Its members are professional astronomers from all over the world, at the D. level and beyond, who are active in professional research, education, and outreach in astronomy.

    Crater Names and Significance

    • Lal Crater: Named after Prof. Devendra Lal, former director of PRL, this 65 km wide crater is positioned at -20.98° and 209.34°.
    • Mursan Crater: Named after a town in Uttar Pradesh, India, this ~10 km wide crater is situated on the eastern side of the Lal crater’s rim.
    • Hilsa Crater: Named after a town in Bihar, India, this ~10 km wide crater is positioned on the western side of the Lal crater’s rim.

    Scientific Importance of Lal Crater

    • Lava Coverage: The entire Lal crater area, located in the Tharsis volcanic region on Mars, is covered with lava.
    • Evidence of Water: Geophysical evidence, including a 45-meter thick sedimentary deposit, suggests the presence of water in the subsurface of the Lal crater. This finding supports the theory that Mars once had water flowing on its surface.
    • Infilling Process: Mursan and Hilsa craters, positioned on either side of the Lal crater, offer insights into the infilling process of the Lal crater. Their presence indicates that infilling occurred episodically over time.

    India’s 2nd Quest for Mars

    • The ISRO is expected to launch Mangalyaan-2, or Mars Orbiter Mission 2 (MOM 2), in 2025.
    • The mission will last one year and is aimed at studying the Red Planet.
    • The successor to Mangalyaan-1, or Mars Orbiter Mission 1 (MOM 1), Mangalyaan-2 will consist of only one orbiter and will be launched atop a GSLV Mark III rocket from Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

    Other missions to Mars

    • ExoMars rover (2022): European Space Agency’s mission to explore Mars.
    • Tianwen-1 (2021): China’s Mars Mission aims to explore and study the Martian surface.
    • UAE’s Hope Mars Mission (2021): UAE’s first interplanetary mission focused on studying the Martian atmosphere.
    • NASA’s Mars Insight (2018): A lander designed to study the interior of Mars.
    • NASA’s Curiosity (2012) and Perseverance (2020): Rovers exploring the Martian surface.
    • NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (2005), Mars Odyssey (2001), and MAVEN (2013): Orbiters studying Mars from space.
    • Mars 2 and Mars 3 (1971): Soviet Union’s missions to Mars, which included orbiter and lander components.

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] The Mangalyaan launched by ISRO

    1. is also called the Mars Orbiter Mission.
    2. made India the second country to have a spacecraft orbit the Mars after USA
    3. made India the only country to be successful in making its spacecraft orbit Mars in its very first attempt.

    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