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Type: Prelims Only

  • Genetic Mysteries of Microcephaly: The Role of SASS6 Gene

    Why in the News?

    A gene called SASS6 (Spindle Assembly Abnormal Protein 6) and its variants have been found to play a key role in a developmental process that causes “Microcephaly”.

    What is Microcephaly?

    • Microcephaly is a condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than normal.
    • It is associated with a smaller brain, poor motor skills, poor speech, abnormal facial features, and intellectual disabilities.
    • Developmental Roots:
      • The condition is believed to start during the peak phase of brain development in the embryo. Cells that are supposed to become neurons fail to divide normally.
    • Diagnosis:
      • Microcephaly can be diagnosed before birth using foetal ultrasound and MRI.

    Role of SASS6 gene 

    • Since 2014, the SASS6 gene and its variants have been linked to microcephaly.

    A recent study in China:(On March 19, 2024)

    • The study of a consanguine couple revealed microcephaly and fetal growth issues. Confirming the SASS6 gene’s role in microcephaly, findings suggest embryo survival requires at least one functional gene copy.

    The University of Cologne Study (February 2024):

    • Researchers removed all functional SASS6 genes from mouse embryo-derived cells.
    • Even without the genes, cells could make abnormal but passable centrioles (structures needed for cell division).
    • When these cells were prompted to become neurons, the centrioles disappeared, preventing the cells from becoming neurons.

    Consanguinity and Genetic Risk of Microcephaly

    • Expert Insight:
      • Researchers explained that over 70% of congenital microcephaly cases come from consanguineous marriages.
      • Such marriages increase the risk of inheriting mutated genes from both parents.
    • Genetic Causes:
      • Mutations in 30 genes cause microcephaly.
      • 10 of these genes create proteins needed for centrioles, which are crucial for cell division.

    Ile62Thr Mutation

    • 2004 Discovery: The SASS6 gene was discovered in the roundworm C. elegans, showing its conserved function across animals.
    • Gene Suppression in C. elegans:
      • Suppressing the SASS6 gene halted new centriole assembly, stopping development.
    • 2014 Study on a Pakistani Family: Researchers found four family members with microcephaly due to the Ile62Thr mutation in the SASS6 gene.
    • The Ile62Thr mutation was introduced into the C. elegans SASS6 gene.
    • The mutation alone did not significantly impair centriole function but became deadly when combined with another mutation.
    • In humans, this mutation causes microcephaly due to its impact on centriole function.

     

    PYQ:

    [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

  • NASA’s PREFIRE Mission to study Earth’s Polar Regions

    Why in the News?

    NASA launched the ” PREFIRE mission”, deploying twin CubeSats to study heat emissions in the Arctic and Antarctic regions, aiming to enhance climate research.

    What are CubeSats?

    • CubeSats are essentially miniature satellites whose basic design is a 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm (which makes up for “one unit” or “1U”) cube — just a little bigger than a Rubik’s cube.
    • weight not more than 1.33 kg.

    • These satellites were first developed in 1999 by California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly) and Stanford University as educational tools. 
    • However, owing to their low cost and less mass in comparison to traditional satellites, they began to be put in orbit for technology demonstrations, scientific research, and commercial purposes.

    About PREFIRE Mission

    • Jointly developed by NASA and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. 
    • It aims to investigate and comprehend the intricate dynamics of heat emissions from Earth’s Polar Regions, specifically focusing on the Arctic and Antarctica.

    Components:

    • CubeSats: PREFIRE employs shoebox-sized CubeSats, each measuring around 6U (6 units), equipped with advanced instrumentation to facilitate data collection.
      • They measure around 90 cm in height and nearly 120 cm in width when the solar panels, which will power the satellite, are deployed.
      • The two satellites will be placed in a near-polar orbit (a type of low Earth orbit) at an altitude of about 525 kilometres.
    • Thermal Infrared Spectrometers (TIRS): Each CubeSat is outfitted with a Thermal Infrared Spectrometer, meticulously engineered to measure far-infrared radiation emitted by the Polar Regions.

    Mission Objectives:

    1. Investigate heat radiated from Earth’s Polar Regions into space and its impact on climate.
    2. Employ thermal infrared spectrometers to measure far-infrared energy emitted by Earth’s surface and atmosphere.
    3. Improve understanding of the greenhouse effect at the poles and its implications for climate change.
    4. Enhance climate and ice models to predict changes in sea level, weather, snow, and ice cover in a warming world.

    Why study heat budget of the Poles?

    • A large amount of the heat radiated from the Arctic and Antarctica is emitted as far-infrared radiation wavelengths of 3 μm to 1,000 μm within the infrared range of electromagnetic radiation.
    • However, there is currently no way to measure this type of energy.
    • As a result, there is a gap in knowledge about the planet’s energy budget.

    Significance of PREFIRE

    • PREFIRE’s observations will enhance predictions of climate and environmental changes, aiding in mitigating the effects of global warming.
    • Data collected will contribute to updating climate models and improving understanding of Earth’s atmospheric dynamics.

    PYQ:

    [2017] What is the purpose of ‘evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)’ project?

    (a) To detect neutrinos

    (b) To detect gravitational waves

    (c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system

    (d) To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems

  • Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC)

    Why in the News?

    • India as a member of FIPIC, has pledged $1 million for relief efforts in flood-hit “Papua New Guinea” showcasing solidarity with the affected nation.

    What is the Forum for India–Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC)?

    • The Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) is a multilateral platform established by India to enhance cooperation with the Pacific Island countries.
    • FIPIC was established by India in 2014 during the first FIPIC Summit held in Suva, Fiji.
    • The initiative was announced by PM Narendra Modi as part of India’s broader “Act East” policy to strengthen engagement with the Pacific Island countries.

    Overview

    • Purpose: To enhance India’s engagement with Pacific Island nations and support their development priorities through cooperative projects and initiatives.
    • Members: Includes India and 14 Pacific Islands nations (Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu).

    Summits

    1. First Summit – Suva, Fiji (November 2014)
      • Context: Initiated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following the re-establishment of democracy in Fiji.
      • Significance: The summit highlighted the geopolitical interest of major powers in the Pacific, with Chinese leader Xi Jinping visiting Fiji shortly after Modi.
    2. Second Summit – Jaipur, India (August 2015)
      • Follow-up: As a continuation of the first summit, Modi invited the leaders of the 14 Pacific Islands to Jaipur.
      • Discussions: Covered cooperation in areas such as the blue economy, oil and natural gas, IT, healthcare, fishing, and marine research. Modi also assured to address their climate change concerns at the 2015 UN Climate Change Conference (COP 21) in Paris.
    3. Third Summit – Papua New Guinea (May 2023)
      • Current Status: Most recent summit, emphasizing ongoing cooperation and collaboration between India and the Pacific Island nations.

    Back2Basics: India’s Act East Policy

    Details
    Launched in November 2014, by PM Modi
    Objective
    • To promote economic cooperation, cultural ties, and develop a strategic relationship with countries in the Indo-Pacific region;
    • Enhancing India’s influence and economic development, especially in the North Eastern Region (NER).
    Scope
    • Extends beyond ASEAN to include East Asian countries.
    • Intensive and continuous engagement in connectivity, trade, culture, defense, and people-to-people contact at bilateral, regional, and multilateral levels.
    Key Dimensions (4C’s)
    1. Culture
    2. Commerce
    3. Connectivity
    4. Capacity building
    Security Focus
    • Enhanced security cooperation, particularly in the context of Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea and Indian Ocean.
    • Promoting freedom of navigation and securing India’s role in the region.
    Historical Context (Look East Policy)
    • Look East Policy initiated in 1992 by Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao.
    • Focused on strengthening economic integration and cultural ties primarily with ASEAN countries.
    • Aimed to bolster India’s role as a regional power and counter China’s strategic influence.
    Evolution from Look East Policy Act East Policy is an upgrade and expansion of the Look East Policy, incorporating more comprehensive engagement strategies, including security cooperation and broader geographical focus.
    Significant Engagements
    • India’s active participation in regional forums like the East Asia Summit (EAS), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and informal groupings such as the Quad.
    • Strategic partnerships and dialogues at various international platforms.
    Major Projects Major projects under the policy include:

     

    PYQ:

    [2016] Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India’s Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. 

    [2011] With reference to “Look East Policy” of India, consider the following statements:

    1. India wants to establish itself as an important regional player in East Asian affairs.
    2. India wants to plug the vacuum created by the termination of Cold War.
    3. India wants to restore the historical and cultural ties with its neighbours in Southeast and East Asia.

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?

    (a) 1 only

    (b) 1 and 3 only

    (c) 3 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 3

  • What is Zero Debris Charter?

    Why in the News?

    • The Zero Debris Charter was signed by twelve nations and the European Space Agency (ESA) at the ESA/EU Space Council.

    Zero Debris Charter

      • The Zero Debris Charter was unveiled at the ESA Space Summit in Seville, Spain, in November 2023.
      • The Charter was facilitated by ESA’s “Protection of Space Assets” Accelerator and developed through extensive collaboration among various space actors.
    • Objectives:
    • To achieve debris neutrality in space by 2030.
    • Long-term sustainability of human activities in Earth orbit.
    • Members:
      • The signatory countries are Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Germany, Lithuania, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Sweden, and the United Kingdom.
      • The ESA signed as an International Organization.

    Community Support and Leadership

    • Over 100 organizations are expected to sign the Charter in the coming months.
    • This includes national space agencies, satellite manufacturers, space startups, and astronomical societies.

    Space Debris Challenges

    • ESA estimates over one million pieces of space debris larger than 1 cm in Earth orbit.
    • These debris pieces pose significant risks to satellites and astronauts.

    Threats posed by Space Debris

    Space debris also leads to two major risks:

    1. It creates unusable regions of the orbit due to excessive debris, and
    2. Leads to the ‘Kessler syndrome’ – the creation of more debris due to cascading collisions resulting from one collision.

  • GAIL inaugurates 10 MW Green Hydrogen Plant in Madhya Pradesh

    Why in the news?

    GAIL (India) Ltd has commissioned its first green hydrogen plant at Vijaipur in Madhya Pradesh, marking a significant step for the nation’s largest natural gas transmission and distribution firm into new and alternate energy sources.

    About Vijaipur Green Hydrogen Plant

    • The plant aligns with the National Green Hydrogen Mission‘s objective of achieving 5 million tons of annual green hydrogen production capacity by 2030.
    • The plant features a 10-megawatt proton exchange membrane electrolyser imported from Canada.
    • It will produce approximately 4.3 tonnes of green hydrogen per day with a purity of about 99.999% by volume.
    • The production process utilises electricity from renewable sources, such as solar energy, to split water and produce green hydrogen.

    Major Objective: Hydrogen Blending

    • GAIL is currently conducting experimental blending of hydrogen with natural gas.
    • Current regulations permit blending up to 5% hydrogen with natural gas, with ongoing studies to explore higher blending ratios.

    What is Green Hydrogen?

    • Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, where electricity derived from renewable sources, such as solar or wind power, is used to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.
    • Since it relies on renewable energy, green hydrogen production has no direct emissions of CO2 or other greenhouse gases.

    What is the Green Hydrogen Standard?

    • Definition of Green Hydrogen: It has defined green hydrogen as having a well-to-gate emission – including water treatment, electrolysis, gas purification, drying and compression of hydrogen – of not more than 2 kg CO2 equivalent per kg of hydrogen produced.
    • Nodal Agency:  The Bureau of Energy Efficiency, Ministry of Power, will be the nodal authority for green hydrogen production projects.

    Back2Basics: National Green Hydrogen Mission, 2023

    Details
    Ministry Ministry of New and Renewable Energy
    Purpose To incentivise the commercial production of green hydrogen and make India a net exporter of the fuel.
    Key Activities Facilitates demand creation, production, utilisation, and export of green hydrogen.
    Sub-Schemes
    1. Strategic Interventions for the Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT): To fund the domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and the production of green hydrogen.
    2. Green Hydrogen Hubs: Identify and develop states and regions capable of supporting large-scale production and/or utilisation of hydrogen as Green Hydrogen Hubs.
    Green Hydrogen Hubs Details Identifies and develops regions capable of large-scale hydrogen production and utilisation as Green Hydrogen Hubs.
    Objectives
    • Develop 5 MMT per annum of green hydrogen production by 2030.
    • Add 125 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
    • Entail over Rs 8 lakh crore investments and generate six lakh jobs.
    • Reduce fossil fuel imports by over Rs 1 lakh crore and abate 50 MT of greenhouse gases annually.

    Significance of Hydrogen Energy 

    • Hydrogen is an important source of energy since it has zero carbon content and is a non-polluting source of energy in contrast to hydrocarbons that have net carbon content in the range of 75–85 per cent.
    • Hydrogen energy is expected to reduce carbon emissions that are set to jump by 1.5 billion tons in 2021.
    • It has the highest energy content by weight and lowest energy content by volume.
    • As per the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Hydrogen shall make up 6 per cent of total energy consumption by 2050.
    • Hydrogen energy is currently at a nascent stage of development but has considerable potential for aiding the process of energy transition from hydrocarbons to renewable.

    Types of Hydrogen

    Hydrogen extraction methods are classified into three types based on their processes: Grey, Blue, and Green etc.

    1. Green Hydrogen:  Discussed above.
    2. Grey Hydrogen: This type of hydrogen is obtained through coal or lignite gasification (black or brown), or by steam methane reformation (SMR) of natural gas or methane (grey). These processes are typically carbon-intensive.
    3. Blue Hydrogen: It is derived from natural gas or coal gasification, coupled with carbon capture storage (CCS) or carbon capture use (CCU) technologies to mitigate carbon emissions.
    4. Turquoise hydrogen: It refers to hydrogen produced from methane pyrolysis, while yellow hydrogen is produced from biomass.

     

    PYQ:

    [2023] Consider the following heavy industries:

    1. Fertilizer plants
    2. Oil refineries
    3. Steel plants

    Green hydrogen is expected to play a significant role in decarbonizing how many of the above industries?

    (a) Only one
    (b) Only two
    (c) All three
    (d) None

    [2023]  With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements:

    1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion.
    2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation.
    3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    (a) Only one
    (b) Only two
    (c) All three
    (d) None

  • [pib] Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) launches PRAGATI-2024

    Why in the news?

    • The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) is hosting “PRAGATI-2024” at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, to promote collaboration and research opportunities between CCRAS and the Ayurveda drug industry.

    About Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS)  

      • The CCRAS is an autonomous body of the Ministry of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy), Government of India.
      • It was established in 1978 to formulate, coordinate, develop, and promote research on scientific lines in the Ayurveda and Sowa-Rigpa system of medicine.
    • Primary Objectives:
      • Research: To undertake research to scientifically establish the efficacy of Ayurvedic practices.
      • Development: To develop and promote Ayurveda science through research and education.
      • Integration: To integrate traditional Ayurvedic methods with modern medicine for more comprehensive healthcare.

    Functions of CCRAS

    • Research Studies: Conducting various types of research studies like drug research, fundamental research, clinical research, literary research, and medicinal plant research.
    • Publication: Publishing scientific journals, research papers, and other documentation to disseminate knowledge.
    • Medicinal Plant Development: Focusing on the cultivation and conservation of medicinal plants used in Ayurveda.
    • Public Health Initiatives: Implementing public health programs and providing training to practitioners.

    Achievements of CCRAS:

    • Development of Ayurvedic Formulations: CCRAS has developed several notable Ayurvedic formulations and technologies, which have been patented and commercialised.
    • National Ayurveda Morbidity Codes: CCRAS has developed morbidity codes and standard terminologies to standardise the practice of Ayurveda.
    • AYUSH Research Portal: A comprehensive database of research on Ayurveda, which includes information on drugs, case studies, and clinical trials.

    Notable Projects:

    • Golden Triangle Partnership: A collaborative project with CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) and ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) for enhancing the scientific validation of Ayurveda.
    • Tribal Health Care Research Program: Aimed at documenting ethno-medical knowledge and validating it for scientific purposes.

    PYQ:

    [2019] How is the Government of India protecting traditional knowledge of medicine from patenting by pharmaceutical companies?

  • Cost Inflation Index (CII) for FY25 to compute Capital Gains

    Why in the News?

    • The Income Tax Department has notified the cost inflation index (CII) for the current fiscal to calculate long-term capital gains arising from the sale of immovable property, securities and jewellery.
      • The CII is used by a taxpayer to compute gains arising out of the sale of capital assets after adjusting for inflation.

    CII Values:

    • For FY 2024-25, the CII is set at 363.
    • Previous years’ CII values were 348 for FY 2023-24 and 331 for FY 2022-23.

    What is Cost Inflation Index (CII)?

    • CII is a measure used by the Income Tax Department of India to account for inflation when calculating the capital gains on the sale of long-term capital assets.
    • It helps to adjust the purchase price of assets to reflect the effect of inflation.
      • CII adjusts the cost of acquisition of assets to the price level inflation at the time of sale.
      • This ensures that taxpayers pay taxes on the real gains rather than on the inflationary component of the price rise.
    • It is defined under Section 48 of the Income-tax Act, 1961.
    • The index is revised annually to keep up with inflation, with the base year being periodically reset (currently the base year is 2001-02 in India).

    Application of CII

    • CII is used to compute the indexed cost of acquisition of a capital asset that has been held for more than 36 months (considered as long-term capital assets).
    • Different holding periods apply for certain types of assets like immovable property and listed securities.

    Tax Calculation:

    • The formula used is:

    • This formula helps determine the adjusted cost basis from which any sale proceeds are subtracted to calculate capital gains.

    Back2Basics: Long Term Capital Gains

    • In India, long-term capital gains (LTCG) refer to the profit earned from the sale of a capital asset held for a specific period, qualifying it as “long-term” based on the duration of holding.
    • The tax implications and treatment of these gains are distinct from those of short-term capital gains.

    Definition of Long-Term Capital Assets

    • Equity or Preference Shares, Listed Securities, Units of UTI, etc.: These are considered long-term if held for more than 12 months before sale.
    • Immovable Property (e.g., Land, Building): Considered long-term if held for more than 24 months.
    • Other Assets (e.g., Jewellery, Debt-oriented Mutual Funds, etc.): These need to be held for more than 36 months to be considered long-term.

    Taxation of Long-Term Capital Gains

    • Equity Investments:
      • LTCG from the sale of listed shares or equity-oriented mutual funds over ₹1 lakh is taxed at 10% without the benefit of indexation, provided the securities transaction tax (STT) was paid at the time of sale.
    • Non-Equity Investments:
      • LTCG from assets like debt mutual funds, real estate, gold, etc., is taxed at 20% with the benefit of indexation.
    • Indexation Benefit:
      • For non-equity assets, the Cost Inflation Index (CII) is used to adjust the purchase price of the asset to reflect inflation. This reduces the taxable gain by increasing the acquisition cost.

    Calculation of Long-Term Capital Gains

    The general formula for calculating LTCG is:


    Where:

    Full Value of Consideration is the sale price of the asset.

    Indexed Cost of Acquisition is the purchase price adjusted by the CII.

    Indexed Cost of Improvement refers to the cost of any improvements made to the asset, adjusted by the CII.

    Cost of Transfer includes expenses directly related to the sale or transfer of the asset.

    Exemptions and Deductions

    • Section 54: Exemption on LTCG from the sale of a residential property if the proceeds are reinvested in another residential property in India.
    • Section 54EC: Exemption by investing LTCG in bonds issued by NHAI or REC within 6 months of the asset sale, subject to a cap of ₹50 lakhs.

     

    PYQ:

    [2015]  Which reference to inflation in India, which of the following statements is correct?

    (a) Controlling the inflation in India is the responsibility of the Government of India only

    (b) The Reserve Bank of India has no role in controlling the inflation

    (c) Decreased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

    (d) Increased money circulation helps in controlling the inflation

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids and its Health Impacts

    Why in the News?

    • Fish oil supplements, highly regarded for their high omega-3 fatty acid content, have long been associated with heart health benefits.
      • A recent study has caused controversy by raising the possibility that these supplements may be as harmful as previously thought.

    What are Fatty Acids?


    Fatty acids are crucial lipids (fats and oils) essential for various biological functions (Fatty Acid + Glycerol = Fats). They are carboxylic acids with a long aliphatic chain, either saturated or unsaturated.

    • Basic Structure: Consists of a hydrocarbon chain with a terminal carboxyl group (-COOH). The length and degree of saturation of the hydrocarbon chain can vary.
    • Roles in the Body: Serve as energy sources, components of cell membranes, and precursors for bioactive lipids.

    Types of Fatty Acids

    Fatty acids are classified based on the presence and number of double bonds in their hydrocarbon chain:

    1. Saturated Fatty Acids (SFA)
      • Structure: Contain no double bonds between carbon atoms; the hydrocarbon chain is saturated with hydrogen atoms.
      • Properties: Typically solid at room temperature.
      • Sources: Animal fats, coconut oil, palm oil, dairy products.
      • Examples: Palmitic acid, stearic acid.
    2. Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFA)
      • Structure: Contain one double bond in the hydrocarbon chain.
      • Properties: Generally liquid at room temperature but solidify when chilled.
      • Sources: Olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, avocados, nuts.
      • Examples: Oleic acid.
    3. Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFA)
      • Structure: Contain two or more double bonds in the hydrocarbon chain.
      • Properties: Liquid at room temperature and in the refrigerator.
      • Sources: Fish, flax seeds, walnuts, sunflower oil, corn oil.
      • Examples:
    1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
    2. Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Linoleic acid, arachidonic acid.
    1. Trans Fatty Acids
      • Formation: Produced by the industrial process of hydrogenation of unsaturated fats, or naturally in the guts of some animals.
      • Properties: Similar to saturated fats, solid at room temperature.
      • Health Impact: Associated with negative cardiovascular effects.
      • Sources: Margarine, partially hydrogenated oils, and some baked goods.

    What are Omega-3 Fatty Acids?

    • Omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) are polyunsaturated fats that perform important functions in the human body.
    • There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acids:
      • EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). EPA is a “marine omega-3” because it’s found in fish.
      • DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). DHA is also a marine omega-3 found in fish.
      • ALA (alpha-linolenic acid). ALA is the form of omega-3 found in plants.
      • When we get ALA from food, the human body can turn some of the ALA into EPA and subsequently to DHA. However, this process provides just a small amount of EPA and DHA. So, dietary sources of EPA and DHA (like fish) are essential.

    Functions of Omega-s fatty acids:

      • They help to provide structure and supporting interactions between cells.
      • Omega-3s are concentrated in high levels in cells in human eyes and brain.
      • They provide the human body with energy (calories) and support the health of many body systems.  These include the human cardiovascular system and endocrine system.

    Significance of Omega-3 fatty acids:

    • Omega-3 fatty acids have many potential benefits for human cardiovascular health.
    • One key benefit is that they help lower human triglyceride levels.
      • Too many triglycerides in human blood (hypertriglyceridemia) raise human risk of atherosclerosis, and through this, can increase human risk of heart disease and stroke. So, it’s important to keep triglyceride levels under control.
    • Omega-3s may help us by raising human HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering human blood pressure.
      • Some studies show omega-3s may lower human risk for Cardiovascular disease (CVD), and hence lowering the sudden death caused by an abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), and blood clots.
    • Beyond heart health, omega-3s may help lower the human risk of developing some forms of cancer, including breast cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), research continues to investigate these and other possible benefits.

    PYQ:

    [2011] A company marketing food products advertises that its items do not contain trans-fats. What does this campaign signify to the customers?

    1. The food products are not made out of hydrogenated oils.
    2. The food products are not made out of animal fats/ oils.
    3. The oils used are not likely to damage the cardiovascular health of the consumers.

    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

  • Hampi’s Virupaksha Temple

    Why in the News?

    The temple’s pavilion or the Saalu Mantap of the historic Virupaksha Temple in Hampi, Karnataka collapsed following Torrential rains.

    About Virupaksha Temple

    • Traced back to the 7th century AD.
    •  Built by early rulers of the Chalukya dynasty.
    • The temple was significantly expanded by Lakkan Dandesha, a chieftain under the rule of Deva Raya II (Prauda Deva Raya) of the Vijayanagara Empire.
    • However, the most significant expansions and contributions were made during the reign of King Krishnadevaraya in the early 16th century.
    • The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known locally as Virupaksha or Pampa Pathi, and is associated with the local deity Pampadevi.
    • Hampi, including the Virupaksha Temple, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986 due to its rich architectural heritage and historical significance.

    Architectural Features of Virupaksha Temple

    Here are the major Dravidian architectural features of the Virupaksha Temple:

    Gopurams (Temple Towers):

    • Main Gopuram: The eastern entrance of the temple features a monumental nine-story gopuram (tower) that is approximately 50 meters high. This tower is intricately decorated with sculptures depicting Hindu myths and deities.
    • Smaller Gopurams: Other entrances of the temple are also marked by smaller but similarly elaborate gopurams.

    Mandapas (Pavilions):

    • Ranga Mandapa: Added in 1510 by King Krishnadevaraya, this is one of the most elaborately carved areas. The Ranga Mandapa is used for temple ceremonies and performances, featuring pillars with intricate carvings of mythical creatures and deities.
    • Open Pillar Hall: A large hall with rows of intricately carved pillars that depict various mythological scenes and form an important part of the temple structure.
    • Kalyana Mandapa: This area is used for celebrating the annual marriage festival of the deities, reflecting both architectural grandeur and cultural significance.

    Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha):

    • Main Shrine: The innermost sanctum houses the sacred Linga of Lord Virupaksha (Shiva). This area is considered the most sacred and is elaborately decorated.
    • Lesser Sanctums: Surrounding the main sanctum, there are smaller shrines dedicated to other deities, which are typical in South Indian temple complexes.

    Pillars and Sculptures:

    • Carved Pillars: The temple’s pillars are renowned for their detailed carvings, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including episodes from the epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata.
    • Artistic Themes: The sculptures include a mix of divine figures, mythological animals, and scenes from daily life, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistic sensibilities of the era.

    Water Structures:

    • Sacred Tank: A sacred water tank within the complex is used for religious rituals and ceremonies.

    About Vijayanagara Empire

    • It was established in 1336 by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, who were brothers and possibly former officers in the Hoysala Empire.
    • Dynastic Rule: Governed by four main dynasties: Sangama, Saluva, Tuluva, and Aravidu.
    • Capital: The capital was Hampi, in the modern state of Karnataka, India, recognized today as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Geographical Span: At its peak, the empire covered not only Karnataka but also extended into parts of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.
    • Krishnadevaraya: Considered the greatest ruler of the empire, known for his administrative genius and patronage of arts and literature.
    • Decline: The Empire suffered a major military defeat against a coalition of Deccan Sultanates in the Battle of Talikota (1565), which led to a significant decline in power.

     

    PYQ:

    [2019] Building ‘Kalyana Mandapas’ was a notable feature in the temple construction in the kingdom of-

    1. Chalukya
    2. Chandela
    3. Rashtrakuta
    4. Vijayanagara

    [2016] Krishnadeva Raya, the king of Vijayanagar, was not only an accomplished scholar himself but was a also a great patron of learning and literature. Discuss.

  • Periyar River and Industrial Pollution

    Why in the News?

    • A mass fish kill struck the Periyar River, the ‘Lifeline of Kerala’.
      • The incident, believed to be caused by industrial pollution from the Edayar Industrial Area, has caused immense loss to fish farmers and disrupted the local ecosystem.

    About Periyar River

    Details
    Length Approximately 244 kilometers (151 miles)
    Source of the river Originates in the Sivagiri hills of Sundaramala, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu
    Mouth of the River Empties into the Arabian Sea at Aluva, near Kochi, Kerala
    Flow Through Flows through Idukki, Ernakulam, and Thrissur districts in Kerala
    Major Tributaries Muthirapuzha, Cheruthoni, Edamalayar
    Key Hydroelectric Projects Idukki Dam (one of Asia’s highest arch dams), other significant dams include Mullaperiyar Dam
    Ecological Conservation Supports diverse ecosystems, passes through Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (notable for elephants and tigers)
    Cultural Significance The ancient port of Muziris, is believed to have been located near the mouth of the Periyar.
    Environmental Challenges Faces pollution from industrial discharge and urban waste; water management disputes, especially related to the Mullaperiyar Dam’s safety and water sharing between Kerala and Tamil Nadu

    Threats to Periyar River

    • The lower reaches of the Periyar are heavily polluted. Industries in the Eloor industrial zone discharge waste into the river.
    • Greenpeace India describes the lower Periyar as “a cesspool of toxins, which have alarming levels of deadly poisons like DDT, endosulfan, hexa and trivalent chromium, lead, cyanide, BHC”.
    • Illegal sand mining from the Periyar is another major environmental issue.

    PYQ:

    [2011] With reference to the Indus river system, of the following four rivers, three of them pour into one of them which joins the Indus direct. Among the following, which one is such river that joins the Indus direct?​

    (a) Chenab

    (b) Jhelum

    (c) Ravi

    (d) Sutlej