In News:

Launched under the Create in India Challenge Season 1, the Bharat Tech Triumph Program (TTP) is a flagship initiative aimed at promoting India’s gaming and interactive entertainment ecosystem on the global stage.

Key Highlights

• Launch Year: 2025
• Ministry Involved: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB)
• Organizing Partner: Interactive Entertainment and Innovation Council (IEIC)

Objectives:

• Identify and showcase Indian gaming talent internationally.
• Support the growth of the gaming, animation, visual effects, and immersive technology (AR/VR/Metaverse) sectors.
• Boost the 'Create in India' initiative in the media and entertainment domain.
• Enable Indian developers and startups to create globally competitive digital products.

Program Features:

• Eligibility:
  Open to developers, studios, startups, and tech companies with working prototypes in:
  • Game development
  • Esports
  • Business solutions for gaming ecosystem
• Selection Process:
  • Game Submission
  • Expert Evaluation – Based on product, pitch, and team viability
  • Final Showcase – Winners selected by a jury

Global Exposure Platforms:

• Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2025
  • Location: San Francisco
  • Dates: March 17–21, 2025
• World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025
  • Location: Mumbai
  • Dates: May 1–4, 2025
  • Venue: Jio World Convention Centre &Jio World Gardens
  • Focus Areas: Broadcasting, AVGC-XR, Digital Media, Innovation, and Films

Relevance of WAVES Summit:

• WAVES acts as a global convergence point for the Media & Entertainment (M&E) sector.
• AVGC-XR (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, Comics + AR/VR/Metaverse) is a central pillar, aligning with TTP’s goals.

Significance for India:

• Positions India as a global hub for innovation in digital entertainment.
• Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in the tech and creative economy sectors.
• Encourages cross-border collaborations and export of Indian intellectual property in the gaming domain.

In News:

The North Eastern Region (NER) of India, endowed with rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and indigenous knowledge, is undergoing a transformation through biotechnology-led initiatives. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science and Technology is spearheading this change to harness the region’s biological resources for inclusive and sustainable development.

Biotechnology: Definition and Types

Biotechnology involves the use of biological systems or organisms to develop products and technologies that improve healthcare, agriculture, industry, and the environment.

Types of Biotechnology:

• Medical Biotechnology – Vaccines, gene therapy, diagnostics.
• Agricultural Biotechnology – Pest-resistant crops, high-yield seeds, and sustainable agriculture.
• Industrial Biotechnology – Biofuels, biodegradable plastics, enzyme-based processes.
• Environmental Biotechnology – Waste treatment, pollution control, and bioremediation.

Why North East India is Ideal for Biotech Development

• Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to 8,000+ plant species, including 850+ medicinal plants and agro-climatic diversity.
• Indigenous Knowledge: Rich traditional practices in herbal medicine and organic farming.
• Agri-Biotech Potential: Ideal for medicinal crops, essential oils, and organic produce.
• Industrial Opportunity: Scope for biofuel production, value-added food processing, and pharmaceutical industries.

Key DBT Programmes and Initiatives in the North East

• DBT North Eastern Programme
  • Since 2010, 10% of DBT’s annual budget is dedicated to NER.
  • Focus: R&D, education, infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and employment generation in biotechnology.
• Twinning R&D Programme (2010–11)
  • Promotes collaborative biotech research between NER and national institutes.
  • Over 65 institutional partnerships, supporting 650+ projects and benefiting ~2,500 researchers/students.
• Biotech Hubs Network (Since 2011)
  • 126 Biotech Hubs established across universities and colleges.
  • Phase II supports 54 hubs for focused research on local issues.
• BLiSS (Biotech Labs in Senior Secondary Schools): Started in 2014 to introduce biotechnology at the school level.
• Visiting Research Professorship (VRP) Programme:Launched in 2015 to utilize the expertise of top scientists for NER biotechnology development.
• Chemical Ecology Programme (2015): Collaborative training by NCBS, UAS, and IISc for Ph.D. scholars in the field of chemical ecology.
• Genomics Training Programme (2016):Conducted by DBT-NIBMG, Kalyani, for biomedical researchers in the region.

Agri-Biotech and Livelihood-Oriented Initiatives

• DBT-NECAB (Phase III): Enhancing biotech applications in agriculture.
• Citrus Research: Disease-free scion material of Khasi mandarin and sweet orange developed at IHT, Assam.
• Medicinal Crop Cultivation: 64.1 acres under Curcuma caesia and lemongrass cultivation; 649 farmers trained.
• Essential Oil Distillation: Facility set up in Mudoi village, Arunachal Pradesh, for revenue support.
• Value-Addition in Wild Fruits: Docynia indica (Assam apple) processed into products like jam, pickles, and candy.

Technology-Driven Achievements

• Bacterial Blight-Resistant Rice (Patkai): Developed by Assam Agricultural University; notified by CVRC.
• Brucellosis Detection Kit: Lateral Flow Assay (LFA) to detect anti-Brucella antibodies in livestock.
• Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES): Mobile app for livestock disease detection and management (available on Google Play Store).

Challenges in NER’s Biotech Growth

• Limited infrastructure for biotech R&D and production.
• High cost of commercial biotech projects.
• Shortage of trained professionals in advanced biotech fields.
• Vulnerability to climate change and poor connectivity with markets.

Way Forward

• Strengthen Infrastructure: Develop biotech parks, R&D centers, and incubators.
• Skill Development: Train local youth, researchers, and farmers.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Foster industrial collaboration for startups and innovation.
• Eco-friendly Technologies: Promote sustainable and low-impact biotech industries.
• Digital Integration: Use AI and data analytics for agricultural and healthcare biotech solutions.

In News:

Microsoft has unveiled Majorana 1, a new quantum chip that marks a significant advancement in quantum computing, suggesting that scalable quantum systems could be achieved in years rather than decades.

What is Majorana 1?

• It is the world’s first quantum chip built on a topological architecture, using Majorana fermions, exotic subatomic particles that are both particles and antiparticles.
• The chip is designed to be more stable and error-resistant than current quantum technologies developed by competitors like Google and IBM.

Core Technology & Innovation:

• Material Composition: Made from indium arsenide (a semiconductor) and aluminum (a superconductor).
• Topological Superconductivity: When cooled near absolute zero and exposed to magnetic fields, it enables the formation of Majorana Zero Modes, which serve as building blocks for stable qubits.
• Topoconductor Architecture: A new class of materials creating a topological state, offering enhanced fault tolerance.

Quantum Advantage:

• Qubit Efficiency: Majorana 1 reduces the number of physical qubits needed to generate logical (error-corrected) qubits.
• Error-Resistance: Its design addresses two major quantum computing limitations — qubit instability (decoherence) and high error rates.
• Scalability Potential: The chip includes eight topological qubits, with future potential to scale up to a million-qubit system.

Why This Matters:

• Improved Reliability: Lower error rates enhance the practical applicability of quantum systems.
• Accelerated Development: Brings the world closer to realizing commercially viable quantum computers.
• Wide Applications: Potential use in drug discovery, material science, clean energy solutions, and more.
• AI Integration: May combine with artificial intelligence to tackle global challenges like microplastic degradation.

Quantum Computing in Brief:

• Quantum Computers use qubits and properties like superposition and entanglement to perform highly complex calculations.
• Major Challenges: Qubit instability and error correction.
• Significance: Quantum computing could revolutionize fields by solving problems beyond the reach of classical computers.

In News:

IN-SPACe, India’s space sector regulator under the Department of Space, has launched the Technology Adoption Fund (TAF) to accelerate the commercialization of indigenous space technologies.

About TAF:

• Objective: To bridge the gap between early-stage innovation and market-ready space solutions developed by Indian startups, MSMEs, and industries.
• Goal: Reduce dependence on imported technologies and strengthen India's position in the global space sector.

Key Features:

• Financial Support:
  • Startups/MSMEs: Up to 60% of project cost.
  • Larger industries: Up to 40%.
  • Funding cap: ?25 crore per project.
• Eligibility: Open to all non-government entities (NGEs) with commercially viable space innovations.
• Support Provided:
  • Partial funding for development and commercialization.
  • Technical mentoring and guidance.
• Focus Areas: Launch vehicles, satellites, space-based applications, and related services.
• Outcomes Expected:
  • Development of new space products.
  • Intellectual property generation.
  • Enhanced production capabilities.
  • Economic growth and job creation.

About IN-SPACe:

• Established: 2020
• Ministry: Department of Space
• Location: Ahmedabad, Gujarat
• Role: Single-window agency promoting private participation in India's space ecosystem.
• Functions:
  • Authorizes and monitors private sector space activities.
  • Facilitates access to ISRO infrastructure.
  • Collaborates with academia, industry, and research bodies.

Significance:

• Encourages private innovation in space tech.
• Aligns with the larger vision of making India a hub for space entrepreneurship.
• Strengthens India’s self-reliance and competitiveness in global space technology.

In News:

The WEST Tokamak reactor in southern France has set a new world record by sustaining a nuclear fusion plasma for 1,337 seconds (22 minutes and 17 seconds), surpassing the previous record of 1,066 seconds held by China’s EAST reactor by 25%. This achievement is a major milestone in the global quest for clean, limitless energy through nuclear fusion.

About Nuclear Fusion

• Nuclear Fusion is the process of combining two light atomic nuclei (typically deuterium and tritium) to form a heavier nucleus, releasing vast amounts of energy.
• The mass defect (loss of mass) in the fusion process converts into energy, as per Einstein’s equation E=mc2E = mc^2E=mc2.
• This reaction occurs in the plasma state—a hot, ionized gas consisting of free electrons and atomic nuclei.

How Tokamak Reactors Work

• A Tokamak is a doughnut-shaped (toroidal) magnetic confinement device that replicates the Sun’s fusion process.
• It uses superconducting magnetic coils to confine and heat the plasma to temperatures exceeding 50 million°C, about three times hotter than the Sun's core.
• Fusion reactors inject external power (WEST used 2 MW) to maintain the plasma and prevent it from touching reactor walls.

WEST Reactor: Key Highlights

• Operated by the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA).
• Aims to simulate long-duration, high-temperature plasma conditions.
• Reached a plasma state sustained for over 22 minutes at 50 million°C.
• Contributes critical insights and validation to the ongoing ITER project, the world’s largest nuclear fusion experiment also based in southern France.

Significance of the Achievement

To make fusion viable for electricity generation, three key conditions must be met:

1. High temperature – to overcome electrostatic repulsion between nuclei.
2. Sustained confinement time – achieved by WEST.
3. Sufficient plasma density – to ensure high collision rates.

Maintaining plasma for extended durations is crucial for transitioning from experimental reactors to commercial fusion energy systems.

Advantages of Nuclear Fusion

• High Energy Output: Produces 4x more energy per kg of fuel than fission, and nearly 4 million times more than fossil fuels.
• Environmentally Clean: Emits no greenhouse gases or long-lived radioactive waste. Only byproducts are inert helium and neutrons.
• Abundant Fuel Supply: Fusion uses deuterium (from seawater) and tritium, eliminating the need for uranium mining.
• Inherent Safety: Fusion reactions are inherently safe as they cannot trigger uncontrolled chain reactions, unlike fission.

Fusion vs. Fission: A Comparison

Aspect                                            Nuclear Fusion                                       Nuclear Fission

Process                                  Combines light nuclei                   Splits heavy nuclei

Fuel                                         Deuterium and Tritium                  Uranium or Plutonium

Energy Output                      Extremely high                                 Moderate

Waste                                     Minimal and short-lived                Long-lived radioactive waste

Emissions                              No greenhouse gases                    Potential radiation hazards

Safety                                     No risk of meltdown                        Risk of runaway reactions/meltdowns

Global Perspective

• Over 200 tokamaks are operational globally.
• The ITER project is set to become the centerpiece of global fusion research.
• Recent breakthroughs like those at WEST provide a technical roadmap for future commercial reactors.

In News:

Nvidia, in collaboration with the Arc Institute and Stanford University, has launched Evo 2 — the world’s largest publicly available AI model for genomic data — aiming to revolutionize genetic research and biomedical innovation.

About Evo 2

• Type: Foundation AI model for genomics.
• Function: Understands and designs genetic code across all domains of life.
• Scale: Trained on ~9 trillion nucleotides from 128,000+ organisms, including bacteria, plants, animals, and humans.
• Platform: Built using 2,000 Nvidia H100 processors on Amazon Cloud, through the NVIDIA DGX Cloud platform.
• Access: Freely available on Nvidia’s BioNeMo research platform.

Key Features

• Accuracy in Mutation Detection:Accurately identified 90% of harmful mutations in BRCA1 — a gene linked to breast cancer.
• Speed and Efficiency:Enables rapid pattern recognition in vast genomic datasets — research that would otherwise take years.
• Collaborative Development:Created by Nvidia in partnership with Arc Institute (nonprofit research body founded in 2021 with $650 million funding) and Stanford University.

Applications

• Healthcare & Medicine:
  • Predicts form and function of proteins.
  • Identifies gene mutations and their impact.
  • Facilitates precision medicine and gene therapy development.
• Agricultural Biotechnology:
  • Aids in designing climate-resilient crops.
• Industrial & Environmental Science:
  • Assists in creating enzymes to break down pollutants.
  • Supports development of new bio-materials.

Significance for India & Global Science

• Accelerates biomolecular research and biotech innovation.
• Contributes to scientific self-reliance and the bioeconomy.
• Enhances capability in combating diseases like cancer and improving food security.

In News:

Meta has launched Project Waterworth, its most ambitious subsea cable initiative to date, aimed at enhancing global digital connectivity. The project involves the deployment of AI-driven subsea cable infrastructure, with India being a key beneficiary.

Key Features:

• Massive Scale:A multi-billion dollar, multi-year global initiative, the project will lay over 50,000 km of undersea cables, connecting five continents, including India, the USA, Brazil, South Africa, and others.
• AI Integration:The project leverages advanced machine learning models to predict and mitigate network disruptions, ensuring greater resilience and reliability of global internet infrastructure.
• Deep Water Deployment:The cable will operate at depths reaching 7,000 meters, using enhanced burial techniques in high-risk areas to prevent damage from ship anchors and other maritime hazards.
• Digital Backbone:Subsea cables like those in Project Waterworth currently carry over 95% of global internet traffic, forming the backbone of international digital communication, video streaming, e-commerce, and cloud-based AI services.

Strategic Relevance for India:

• India’s Digital Push:The project supports India’s growing digital economy by ensuring faster, more reliable internet connectivity and fostering digital inclusion and innovation.
• AI and Infrastructure Synergy:With AI-driven maintenance and deployment, the initiative complements India's vision of becoming a global hub for AI, data centers, and digital services.
• Economic and Strategic Benefits:Enhanced connectivity is expected to boost economic cooperation, cross-border trade, and participation in global digital platforms.

In News:

On February 11, 2025, to mark the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Women and Girls in Science, UNESCO, with support from Canada’s International Development Centre (IDRC), launched the global campaign titled “Imagine a World with More Women in Science.”

Campaign Highlights

• Objective: Promote gender equality in science and innovation by encouraging the active participation and leadership of women in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine).
• Social Media Drive: The campaign uses the hashtag #EveryVoiceInScience to amplify diverse voices and encourage global engagement.
• Focus: Emphasizes the real-world impact of gender disparities in science, including missed innovations, biased artificial intelligence, and inequitable scientific opportunities.

Background

• The UN General Assembly (UNGA) declared February 11 as the International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015 to foster female participation in scientific research and innovation globally.

Current Status of Women in Science

Global Trends

• Representation: Women comprise only one-third of the global scientific workforce.
• Leadership Gap: Merely 10% of STEM leadership positions are held by women.

India-Specific Data

• STEMM Enrolment: Women account for 43% of enrolment in STEMM disciplines.
• Women Scientists: Only 18.6% of scientists in India are women.
• R&D Projects: About 25% of R&D projects are led by women researchers.

Challenges Faced by Women in Science

Challenge                                            Description

Restrictive Social Norms         Traditional gender roles hinder women’s

                                                       scientific pursuits.

Lack of Role Models                      Few visible female leaders discourage young women from

                                                       aspiring to scientific careers.

Workplace Inequality                 Gender biases, hostile work environments, and lack of inclusive

                                                       policies create barriers.

Educational Gaps                          Gender-biased teaching content and insufficient support systems

                                                       limit girls’ access to science education.

Recommended Measures

Dismantle Gender Stereotypes

• Remove gender biases from teaching and learning materials.
• Include contributions of female scientists in textbooks with visuals.
• Promote equitable representation of women in boards, panels, and decision-making bodies.

Enhance Visibility of Women Role Models

• Highlight discoveries by female scientists.
• Increase media and curriculum exposure to successful women in science.

Open Educational Pathways

• Promote inclusive teaching practices and gender-neutral curricula.
• Encourage CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives to support girls in science education.

Create Inclusive Work Environments

• Enforce policies for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Take strong action against gender-based violence, including sexism and harassment in the workplace.
• Advance women into leadership roles in scientific institutions.

In News:

Russia has announced the development of an mRNA-based personalized cancer vaccine, expected to be available free of cost to patients by early 2025. It is being developed under the Russian Ministry of Health, with pre-clinical trials showing promising results in suppressing tumour growth and metastasis.

What is an mRNA-Based Cancer Vaccine?

• mRNA (Messenger RNA) vaccines deliver genetic instructions to the body’s cells to produce antigens—proteins that trigger an immune response.
• In the case of cancer, these vaccines train the immune system to recognize and destroy tumor-specific antigens, thereby attacking cancer cells.
• Unlike conventional vaccines, these are therapeutic, not preventive, and are used in existing cancer patients.

How Does It Work?

• The vaccine prompts the body to produce proteins that mimic tumor markers.
• These markers stimulate the immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.
• The treatment is personalized, with the mRNA sequence tailored to match the unique antigens of a patient’s tumour, enhancing precision and efficacy.
• It can potentially target multiple antigens simultaneously, unlike standard mRNA vaccines such as those for COVID-19.

Advantages Over Conventional Therapies

• Selective Action: Targets only cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
• Fewer Side Effects: Compared to chemotherapy, the side effects are significantly reduced.
• Customizable: Can be adapted to target various cancers through tumor-specific markers.
• Boosts Immunity: Enhances the body’s natural defense mechanisms for long-term protection.

mRNA Technology – Core Concepts

• mRNA is a single-stranded RNA transcribed from DNA.
• It delivers genetic instructions to ribosomes (protein factories) in cells to produce specific proteins.
• In mRNA vaccines, this mechanism is harnessed to make the body generate target antigens, which the immune system learns to combat.

India and mRNA Vaccines

• India has approved two mRNA COVID-19 vaccines developed by Gennova Biopharmaceuticals with DBT-BIRAC support:
  • GEMCOVAC-OM(Omicron-specific)
  • GEMCOVAC-19
• Features include needle-free delivery and thermostability, marking India’s entry into mRNA-based immunotherapy platforms.

Cautions and Limitations

• Not Preventive: These are not preventive like HPV or Hepatitis B vaccines, which protect against cancers linked to viruses.
• Limited Data: Russian vaccine data is not yet publicly available; clinical validation is pending.
• Not Universally Effective: Immunotherapy may not work for all types or stages of cancer.
• Time-Consuming Trials: New treatments must undergo phased trials, often spanning years, before general approval.

In News:

In recent years, India has witnessed a marked increase in colorectal diseases, including colorectal cancer, Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and other related disorders. This surge is closely linked to urbanization, dietary transitions, sedentary lifestyles, and improved diagnostic practices.

What are Colorectal Diseases?

Colorectal diseases affect the colon and rectum and encompass a spectrum of conditions:

• Colorectal Cancer: Originates from polyps in the colon or rectum. If untreated, these polyps can turn malignant. The incidence of colorectal cancer is rising rapidly in Indian urban centers, now ranking among the top cancers in cities.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): A chronic condition involving inflammation of the digestive tract, especially the colon and small intestine. Subtypes include Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Once rare in India, IBD is now on the rise due to industrialization, Western diets, and enhanced medical diagnostics.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A non-inflammatory, functional bowel disorder marked by abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea) without visible bowel damage. IBS is highly prevalent in India.
• Diverticular Disease: Characterized by the formation of small pouches (diverticula) in the colon wall. Inflammation or infection of these pouches leads to complications and discomfort.
• Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures: Swollen veins or tears in the rectal region, leading to pain, bleeding, and itching—often caused by hard stools or chronic constipation.

Why are these diseases increasing?

• Dietary Shifts: Increased intake of processed foods, red meat, and low-fiber diets (lacking fruits and vegetables) have significantly raised the risk of colorectal cancer and other digestive disorders.
• Physical Inactivity: Sedentary behavior, especially in urban populations, heightens susceptibility to these conditions.
• Rising Obesity: Obesity, closely associated with lifestyle disorders, is a contributing factor for colorectal cancer and IBS.
• Ageing Population: Risk increases with age, and India’s growing elderly demographic intensifies disease burden.
• Genetic and Lifestyle Factors: A family history of colorectal conditions, coupled with habits like smoking and alcohol consumption, further elevate risk levels.
• Gut Microbiota Disruption: Imbalance in gut bacteria and possible infections are emerging as factors in the etiology of IBD; ongoing research aims to establish clearer links.

Common Symptoms

• Persistent changes in bowel habits: constipation, diarrhea, or narrow stools.
• Rectal bleeding: presence of bright red or dark blood in the stool.
• Abdominal pain, bloating, or cramps.
• Unexplained weight loss.
• Chronic fatigue and weakness.
• Sensation of incomplete bowel emptying.

Diagnosis

• Physical Examination and clinical history evaluation.
• Stool Tests for blood, infections, or abnormalities.
• Colonoscopy (gold-standard diagnostic tool) to inspect the colon and collect biopsies.
• Sigmoidoscopy for lower colon and rectum.
• Imaging: CT, MRI, or X-rays to detect abnormalities.
• Blood Tests to assess inflammation and exclude other conditions.

Treatment Modalities

• Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs (for IBD), antibiotics, pain relief, and symptom-specific treatments.
• Lifestyle Interventions: High-fiber diets (for IBS, diverticulitis), regular physical activity, and stress reduction.
• Surgery: Required in advanced cases of colorectal cancer or severe IBD/diverticular disease.
• Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy: Used post-operatively or in advanced malignancies.
• Targeted Biological Therapies: Including monoclonal antibodies for immune modulation in IBD.

In News:

• The European Space Agency’s (ESA) Euclid space telescope has recently discovered a rare Einstein ring around the galaxy NGC 6505, located nearly 590 million light-years from Earth.
• This ring was formed by the light of a distant unnamed galaxy situated 4.42 billion light-years away, distorted and amplified due to gravitational lensing by NGC 6505.

What is an Einstein Ring?

• It is a circular ring of light that appears around a massive celestial object such as a galaxy, dark matter concentration, or cluster of galaxies.
• Caused due to strong gravitational lensing, it occurs when a massive foreground object (gravitational lens) bends and amplifies the light from a background object, resulting in a circular or arc-like appearance.
• The phenomenon only results in a full ring when the observer, lensing object, and background galaxy are almost perfectly aligned.

Theoretical Basis

• Named after Albert Einstein, who in his General Theory of Relativity predicted that massive objects warp space-time, thereby bending the path of light.
• The phenomenon of gravitational lensing, and by extension Einstein rings, was first theoretically anticipated by Einstein and empirically confirmed much later.

Scientific Importance

• Extremely rare phenomena: Occur in less than 1% of galaxies.
• Serve as natural cosmic magnifying lenses that allow scientists to study:
  • Dark Matter: Helps trace the invisible distribution of dark matter through gravitational effects.
  • Dark Energy: Supports understanding of dark energy’s role in accelerating the universe’s expansion.
  • Distant Galaxies: Reveals otherwise invisible galaxies by amplifying their light.
  • Universe Expansion: Provides data on how space between galaxies stretches over cosmic time.

Gravitational Lensing: Explained

• Gravitational lensing occurs when a massive body (galaxy, cluster, black hole) creates a gravitational field that bends and magnifies light from objects behind it.
• This leads to multiple outcomes — arcs, double images, or full rings (Einstein rings).
• The lensing object in the recent case is NGC 6505, a galaxy first observed in the 19th century.

Observation and Imaging

• Einstein rings are not visible to the naked eye and require powerful space telescopes like Euclid for detection.
• Euclid captured images showing a bright central galaxy (NGC 6505) with a distinctive, cloudy ring formed by the bent light from the background galaxy.

About the Euclid Space Telescope

• Launched in 2023 by ESA using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
• Operates from Lagrangian Point 2 (L2), located 1.5 million km from Earth.
• Designed for a six-year mission to study the dark universe.
• Key Objectives:
  • Create the largest 3D map of the cosmos.
  • Observe billions of galaxies across 10 billion light-years.
  • Understand the distribution of dark matter and the influence of dark energy in the early universe.
  • Study light emitted from galaxies up to 10 billion years ago to trace cosmic evolution.

In News:

Astronomers have discovered the largest known cosmic structure, named Quipu, in a study led by Hans Bohringer of the Max Planck Institute. The findings are part of efforts to map matter distribution in the universe using redshift data between 0.3 to 0.6, revealing some of the most distant known objects.

Key Features of Quipu:

Attribute               Description 

Type                          Superstructure (clusters of galaxy superclusters)

Length                    ~1.3 billion light-years (Over 13,000 times the Milky Way’s size)

Mass                       ~200 quadrillion (2 × 10¹?) solar masses

Components    ~70 galactic superclusters

Shape                     Central filament with multiple branching filaments (named after the Incan “Quipu” cord system)

Cosmic Significance:

• Gravitational Lensing (GL): Due to its enormous mass, Quipu bends light from background objects, distorting sky images.
• Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB): Its gravitational field causes fluctuations in the CMB—the relic radiation from the Big Bang.
• Hubble Constant Impact: Quipu and similar structures distort measurements of the Universe’s expansion rate.

Scientific Context:

• Superstructures: Extremely large arrangements of matter including groups of galaxy clusters and superclusters.
• Quipu is hundreds of thousands of times more massive than a single galaxy.
• Discovered at a distance of 425 to 815 million light-years from Earth.

Other Superstructures Identified:

Alongside Quipu, astronomers identified four other massive structures:

• Shapley Supercluster
• Serpens-Corona Borealis Superstructure
• Hercules Supercluster
• Sculptor-Pegasus Superstructure

Together, these five structures:

• Contain ~45% of all galaxy clusters
• Include ~30% of galaxies
• Hold ~25% of the matter in the universe
• Occupy ~13% of the universe’s volume

Future Evolution:

• Scientists consider Quipu a "transient configuration".
• It is expected to break into smaller collapsing units in the future, altering cosmic structures over time.

In News:

• Natco Pharma, a Hyderabad-based generic drug manufacturer, has received final approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its generic version of Bosentan tablets for oral suspension (32mg).
• This drug, a generic version of Actelion Pharmaceuticals’ Tracleer, is used to treat Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), a condition characterized by high blood pressure in the lungs.
• The approval comes after Natco's successful submission of an abbreviated new drug application (ANDA), which was jointly developed with its marketing partner, Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
• Natco believes that it holds the sole first-to-file status for the product, which qualifies it for a 180-day exclusivity period upon launch. The exclusivity period would allow Natco to be the only supplier of the generic product in the U.S. market for a limited time, which could offer significant market share before generic competition arrives.
• Bosentan, the active ingredient in Tracleer, is prescribed for patients suffering from PAH, a progressive condition that raises the blood pressure in the lungs and causes strain on the heart.
• The treatment helps to improve pulmonary vascular resistance and is indicated for patients aged three years and above, including those with idiopathic or congenital PAH. The product is expected to improve exercise capacity and overall quality of life for these patients.
• In the U.S., Bosentan 32mg oral suspension generated an estimated $11 million in sales for the 12 months ending September 2024.

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH) Overview

• It is a specific type of pulmonary hypertension in which the small arteries in the lungs become thickened and narrowed. This results in obstructed blood flow and increased pressure in the pulmonary arteries, which makes the heart work harder to pump blood through the lungs.
• The exact cause of PAH remains unclear, though it is believed to result from injury to the cells lining the blood vessels in the lungs, leading to long-term vascular disease.
• PAH can develop in association with several medical conditions, including congenital heart disease, liver disease, HIV, and autoimmune diseases like scleroderma and lupus. It can also be triggered by past or current drug use, such as the abuse of methamphetamine or the use of certain diet pills.

Symptoms of PAH include:

• Shortness of breath that worsens over time
• Fatigue and dizziness
• Chest pain
• Cyanosis (blue fingers or lips)
• Fainting episodes

While there are treatment options available for PAH, including medications that help manage the symptoms and slow disease progression, there is currently no known cure. PAH remains a significant area of concern in pulmonary healthcare, and the introduction of generic Bosentan by Natco Pharma offers a more affordable treatment option for patients in the U.S.

In News:

The European Space Agency’s Gaia mission, launched in 2013, continues to redefine our understanding of the Milky Way by detecting celestial phenomena through precise astrometry.

One of its most significant contributions has been the discovery of dormant stellar-mass black holes that are not associated with X-ray emissions—previously the main detection method. These discoveries represent a paradigm shift in black hole detection and open new avenues for astrophysical research.

Gaia BH Series: Discovery and Significance

Gaia BH1

• Discovery Year: 2022
• Location: ~1,560 light years from Earth in the Ophiuchus constellation
• Significance:
  • Closest known black hole to Earth
  • Detected via a yellow star orbiting a dark mass, whose high orbital velocity implied the presence of a black hole nearly nine times the mass of the Sun
  • Validated using data from LAMOST (China) and Magellan Clay Telescope (Chile)

Gaia BH2

• Discovery Year: 2023
• Location: ~3,800 light years away in the Centaurus constellation
• Mass: Around nine solar masses
• Observation Method: Tracked motion of a luminous star orbiting an unseen massive companion

Gaia BH3 – A Landmark Discovery

• Discovery Year: 2024
• Distance from Earth: ~1,926 light years (~2,000 light years), making it the second closest black hole
• Location:Aquila constellation, in the Milky Way’s outer regions
• Mass: ~33 times the mass of the Sun, making it the largest known stellar-mass black hole in the Milky Way
• Orbital Partner: A yellow giant star orbiting every 11.6 years, with an average separation similar to the Sun-Uranus distance
• Special Traits:
  • It is a dormant or passive black hole, not actively accreting matter
  • Lacks X-ray emissions, suggesting a scarcity of surrounding material
  • Its companion star’s chemical composition indicates ancient origins, hinting that such massive black holes were formed early in the universe

Scientific Implications:

• Detection Technique Innovation:Gaia uses astrometric mapping to track the apparent motion of stars across the sky. When a star appears to orbit "empty space," astronomers infer the presence of a massive object—typically a black hole—using Kepler’s laws and the Doppler effect.
• Redefining Black Hole Census:Most black holes were previously detected through X-ray emissions. Gaia has revealed non-emitting black holes, indicating a possibly larger hidden black hole population in our galaxy.
• Historical Linkage:Black holes with masses above 30 solar masses were previously only observed through gravitational waves (LIGO/VIRGO, 2015). Gaia BH3 now provides a local, observable counterpart.

In News:

Recent outbreaks of suspected Ranikhet disease (Newcastle Disease) have caused the death of approximately 1.5 lakh chickens in poultry farms across Andhra Pradesh (Eluru, Guntur, Prakasam, and the Godavari districts) and Haryana (Barwala and Raipur Rani in Panchkula). These outbreaks have raised alarms about biosecurity measures, especially in regions that are major poultry producers.

About Ranikhet Disease:

• Also known as: Newcastle Disease (ND)
• Causative Agent: Avian avulavirus 1 (also called Avian Paramyxovirus-1 or APMV-1)
• Affected Species: Primarily chickens, but also turkeys, ducks, pigeons, crows, geese, guinea fowls, partridges, doves, and even hedgehogs (suspected reservoirs).
• Nature of Disease: Highly contagious and fatal viral disease.
• Transmission:
  • Direct contact with infected bird secretions (especially feces)
  • Contaminated feed, water, equipment, clothing, and environment
  • ND virus can survive for weeks in cool environments, increasing risk in winter.

Symptoms and Impact:

• In Birds:
  • Respiratory issues: Sneezing, gasping
  • Nervous symptoms: Droopiness, loss of coordination
  • Digestive symptoms: Diarrhea
  • Mortality rate: Ranges from 50% to 100%
  • Production impact: Drop in egg production and fertility
• In Humans:
  • Mild zoonotic effect, primarily conjunctivitis in people handling infected birds or lab samples.
  • Usually self-limiting and non-fatal.

Recent Outbreaks and Investigations:

Andhra Pradesh:

• Approximately 1.5 lakh birds have died across multiple districts.
• Suspected cause: Highly virulent strain of Ranikhet Disease.

Haryana (Barwala–Raipur Rani belt):

• This belt houses around 115 poultry farms and is the second-largest poultry producer in Asia.
• Previously affected by bird flu outbreaks in 2006 and 2014.
• Northern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (NRDDL), Jalandhar collected 40 new samples from affected farms after being unsatisfied with earlier ones.
• Preliminary suspicion points toward Ranikhet Disease; however, cold wave conditions and the presence of older birds (not replaced due to COVID-19 restrictions) may have also contributed.
• The region falls in the path of migratory birds, whose droppings can spread avian flu viruses, complicating disease identification.

Current Challenges:

• Lack of effective treatment: No curative treatment exists. Management relies on preventive vaccination, biosecurity measures, and good poultry housing practices.
• Diagnostic delays: Require reliable sampling and laboratory testing to confirm the cause.
• Climate sensitivity: Poultry are vulnerable to extreme cold, especially if housing and care are inadequate.
• Pandemic aftershocks: COVID-19 disruptions prevented the routine replacement of older birds, increasing vulnerability.

In News:

An eight-year-old girl, Shasa Fathima, from Kottakkal in Malappuram district, Kerala, recently died after undergoing nearly two months of treatment for brucellosis at the Government Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode. This tragic incident has renewed public health concerns regarding zoonotic infections in India.

What is Brucellosis?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), brucellosis is a bacterial disease caused by various species of the genus Brucella. The bacteria primarily infect: cattle, swine, goats, sheep & dogs.

Humans typically contract the infection through:

• Direct contact with infected animals or their secretions (blood, placenta, fetus, uterine fluids)
• Ingestion of contaminated animal products, especially unpasteurised milk and cheese
• Inhalation of airborne bacteria (e.g., in lab or farm environments)

Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare, as per WHO guidelines.

Symptoms and Incubation Period

• The disease presents a wide spectrum of symptoms: fever, weakness, weight loss, general discomfort or malaise.
• In many cases, symptoms may be mild or go undiagnosed. The incubation period ranges from one week to two months, most commonly between two to four weeks.

At-Risk Populations

• Brucellosis can affect individuals of all age groups. However, certain occupational groups are at higher risk, including: farmers and dairy workers, butchers, hunters, veterinarians, laboratory personnel. These individuals are often exposed to animal blood and reproductive fluids, which are primary modes of transmission.

Status in Kerala

Kerala has reported sporadic cases of brucellosis in recent years. In 2023, cases emerged from Kollam (July) and Thiruvananthapuram (October). While the disease is not new to the state, fatalities remain rare.

In response, the Department of Animal Husbandry has initiated awareness campaigns for dairy farmers and conducted milk sample testing across cooperative societies to monitor possible sources of infection.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics:

• Doxycycline (100 mg, twice daily for 45 days)
• Streptomycin (1 g daily for 15 days)

Effective preventive measures include:

• Vaccination of livestock (cattle, goats, sheep)
• Pasteurisation of milk and dairy products before human consumption
• Public awareness campaigns on the dangers of consuming unpasteurised animal products
• Regulatory policies on the sale of raw milk

In News:

In the Union Budget 2025–26, the Union Finance Minister announced a five-year Cotton Mission to boost productivity, sustainability, and promotion of Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton in India, aiming to reduce import dependency and strengthen the high-end textile sector.

What is Extra-Long Staple (ELS) Cotton?

• Definition: ELS cotton refers to cotton varieties with fibre lengths of 30 mm or more, renowned for their superior softness, strength, durability, and premium quality.
• Botanical Origin: Derived primarily from the species Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton.

Distinguishing Cotton Types by Fibre Length

Type                      Fibre Length        Species                          Quality                 Uses                Yield per Acre   

Short Staple             < 25 mm             Gossypium hirsutum      Coarser         Low-cost textiles        High

Medium Staple       25–28.6 mm         Gossypium hirsutum     Moderate       Everyday fabrics       10–12 quintals

Extra-Long          30 mm & above   Gossypium barbadense  Superior     Luxury textiles        7–8 quintals

Staple (ELS)

Special Characteristics of ELS Cotton

• Softer & Smoother: Ideal for premium, luxury clothing.
• Stronger & More Durable: Resistant to wear and tear.
• Resistant to Pilling: Maintains smoothness over time.
• Luxurious Finish: Produces fine yarns with a natural sheen.
• Minimal Finishing Required: Retains natural texture and quality.

Global and Indian Production Landscape

• Origin: Native to South America.
• Globally Grown In:
  • Egypt, China, Australia, Peru – leading producers.
• In India:
  • Cultivated in Atpadi Taluka (Sangli, Maharashtra), around Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), and in parts of Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.
  • Grown mostly in rain-fed areas with warm climates and fertile soil, aiding fibre quality.

Challenges in ELS Cotton Cultivation in India

• Low Yield: ELS cotton yields 7–8 quintals/acre, significantly lower than medium staple varieties (10–12 quintals/acre).
• Market Linkage Deficit: Farmers struggle to fetch premium prices for ELS cotton due to weak market access and lack of dedicated procurement infrastructure.
• Technological Gaps: Limited access to improved seed varieties, agronomic practices, and technologies like HtBT (Herbicide-tolerant Bt) cotton.
• Import Dependency: India imports 20–25 lakh bales annually, accounting for ~90% of its ELS cotton requirements, to meet demand from the premium textile industry.

Significance of the Five-Year Cotton Mission

• Aimed at:
  • Enhancing productivity and sustainability of ELS cotton.
  • Reducing import dependence through indigenous development.
  • Strengthening high-value textile exports by ensuring reliable ELS supply.
• Supports:
  • Farmer income enhancement through value-added cultivation.
  • Research and development in ELS cotton seed technology.
  • Improved extension services, supply chain development, and market support mechanisms.

In News:

A henipavirus, specifically the Camp Hill virus, has been detected in North America for the first time. This discovery in northern short-tailed shrews—a small mammal species found commonly in Canada and the U.S.—raises concerns over a potential zoonotic disease outbreak.

About Henipavirus

• Virus Type: Henipaviruses are zoonotic, negative-sense RNA viruses.
• Family: Paramyxoviridae.
• Natural Hosts: Pteropid fruit bats (commonly known as flying foxes).
• Other Hosts: Capable of infecting various mammals, including humans, horses, pigs, and shrews.

Notable Henipaviruses:

• Hendra virus (HeV):
  • First identified in Australia.
  • Mortality rate: Up to 70%.
• Nipah virus (NiV):
  • Found in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Bangladesh.
  • Case fatality rate ranges from 40% to 75%, depending on surveillance and clinical care.

Symptoms and Disease Progression

• Initial symptoms: Fever, dizziness, headache, and muscle pain (myalgias).
• Advanced symptoms: Respiratory issues, encephalitis (brain inflammation), confusion, abnormal reflexes, seizures, and coma.
• Relapsing encephalitis may occur months or years after apparent recovery.
• Fatality Risk: High, primarily due to encephalitis and multi-organ failure caused by damage to small blood vessels (microinfarction) in organs like the brain, liver, and kidney.

Why are Henipaviruses so dangerous?

• Henipaviruses produce proteins that:
  • Suppress the innate immune system.
  • Block interferon-stimulated antiviral responses, aiding viral replication.
  • Act as virulence factors, allowing widespread infection and severe outcomes.

Modes of Transmission

• Animal-to-human:
  • Direct contact with infected animals (e.g., fruit bats, pigs, horses, shrews).
  • Consumption of contaminated food or water (e.g., raw date palm sap in Nipah outbreaks).
• Human-to-human: Via bodily fluids, close contact, or respiratory droplets during caregiving.

Treatment and Prevention

• Treatment:
  • No specific vaccine or antiviral currently exists.
  • Management is symptomatic and supportive (respiratory support, ICU care).
• Prevention:
  • Vaccination of horses (in HeV-risk regions like Australia).
  • Avoiding contact with fruit bats and sick animals.
  • Isolating infected individuals and animals to prevent spread.

In News:

India has made a significant stride in biomedical research and public health with three major developments led by the Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI) in Faridabad, Haryana.

Key Highlights:

India’s First Ferret Research Facility

• Inaugurated by: Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology.
• Location: NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad.
• Purpose: To bolster India's capacity in:
  • Vaccine development
  • Therapeutic testing
  • Research on emerging infectious diseases like influenza, COVID-19, and tuberculosis.
• Significance:
  • Strengthens India’s pandemic preparedness.
  • Positions India among the select nations with advanced biosafety labs using ferrets—ideal models due to respiratory systems similar to humans.

Launch of GARBH-INi-DRISHTI Data Repository

• Platform: DBT Data Repository and Information Sharing Hub under the GARBH-INi program.
• Dataset Size: Over 12,000 pregnant women, newborns, and postpartum mothers.
• Developed by: THSTI with collaboration from top Indian research institutions and hospitals.
• Features:
  • Comprehensive clinical data, medical images, and biospecimens.
  • Secure, controlled access promoting ethical research.
  • Facilitates predictive tools for preterm birth and maternal health complications.
• Utility:
  • Empowers both national and global researchers.
  • Informs maternal and neonatal health interventions.
  • Supports evidence-based policymaking in public health.
• Program Genesis:
  • GARBH-INi (2014): Interdisciplinary initiative to understand preterm birth risks—biological and non-biological.
  • Part of: Atal Jai Anusandhan Biotech Mission under the UNaTI initiative.

Technology Transfer Agreement with Industry

• Agreement Between: THSTI and Sundyota Numandis Probioceuticals Pvt. Ltd.
• Technology Transferred:
  • Lactobacillus crispatus, a genetically defined synthetic microbial consortium.
  • Isolated from reproductive tracts of Indian women enrolled in GARBH-INi.
• Applications:
  • Nutraceuticals and probiotics for reproductive health.
  • Potential treatments for vaginal infections and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Significance:
  • Promotes microbiome-based interventions.
  • Bridges lab-to-market gap, boosting the biomanufacturing ecosystem.

Strategic Implications for India

• Scientific Diplomacy & Global Standing: With cutting-edge facilities and open data-sharing platforms, India emerges as a key player in global biomedical research.
• Public Health Impact: Supports targeted, data-driven maternal health policies and pandemic response frameworks.
• Innovation Ecosystem: Reflects the convergence of academic research, industry collaboration, and translational science.

In News:

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to become the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station (ISS) on a private mission, marking a significant milestone in India’s space diplomacy and international collaboration in human spaceflight.

Mission Details:

• Mission Name: Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4)
• Launch Vehicle: SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft
• Launch Site: Kennedy Space Center, Florida, USA
• Tentative Timeline: Spring 2025
• Duration on ISS: Up to 14 days
• Mission Objectives: Conduct scientific experiments, educational outreach, and commercial activities, in collaboration with NASA and ISRO.

International Collaboration:

• The mission includes astronauts from India, Poland, and Hungary—the first such trilateral collaboration in over four decades.
• Marks the return of human spaceflight for Poland and Hungary after a hiatus of more than 40 years.
• Demonstrates Axiom Space’s emerging role in redefining access to low-Earth orbit and supporting national space programs through private missions.

About Shubhanshu Shukla:

• Born: October 10, 1985, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
• Commissioned into IAF: June 2006, Fighter Wing
• Promoted to Group Captain: March 2024
• Current Role: Astronaut-designate for India’s Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission
• Flight Experience: Over 2,000 hours across multiple aircraft including Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, Hawk, Dornier, and An-32
• Astronaut Training: Trained at Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center, Star City, Moscow (1-year program)

Historical Context:

• Rakesh Sharma remains the first Indian to travel to space (1984) aboard Soviet Soyuz T-11, under the Interkosmos program.
• Shukla’s upcoming mission marks a new era of Indian participation in international human space missions, particularly through private partnerships.

In News:

A recent scientific study has identified a bacterial strain, Labrys portucalensis F11 (commonly referred to as F11), capable of degrading per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — popularly known as “forever chemicals” — by breaking their strong carbon-fluorine (C-F) bonds.

About F11 Bacteria:

• Scientific Name: Labrys portucalensis F11
• Family: Xanthobacteraceae
• Nature: Aerobic and pollutant-resistant bacterium
• Origin: Isolated from industrially contaminated soil in Portugal
• Significance:
  • Adapted to thrive in toxic environments
  • Uses environmental contaminants as an energy source
  • Capable of degrading at least three types of PFAS and certain toxic byproducts

What Are Forever Chemicals (PFAS)?

• Definition: A group of synthetic, man-made chemicals known for their extremely strong C-F bonds, making them persistent and non-biodegradable.
• Why Called 'Forever':
  • Resistant to natural breakdown
  • Found in air, rainwater, and soil for decades or longer
• Health & Environmental Hazards:
  • Linked to cancer, hormonal disorders, immune dysfunction, and environmental toxicity
  • Migrate into soil, water, and air during production and use
• Regulation: Certain PFAS are listed under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants

Relevance for India and the World:

• Global Impact:
  • PFAS are used in a wide range of consumer products such as non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, and food packaging.
  • Their persistence poses long-term risks to public health, groundwater contamination, and biodiversity.
• India's Concern:
  • Increasing industrialization and waste mismanagement heighten PFAS exposure risks.
  • No comprehensive PFAS regulation in place yet; calls for adopting stringent environmental safety norms.

In News:

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued new guidelines promoting the use of Lower-Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS) to tackle the global burden of hypertension, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and stroke, which are largely driven by excessive sodium consumption. This is especially relevant for countries like India, with a high prevalence of high blood pressure and salt consumption.

What Are Lower-Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS)?

• LSSS are alternatives to regular table salt, where sodium chloride (NaCl) is partially replaced by potassium chloride (KCl), magnesium sulphate, or calcium chloride.
• They are designed to retain the taste of regular salt while significantly reducing sodium intake and improving heart health.
• LSSS can help lower blood pressure, thanks to the potassium content, which helps balance fluid levels and offset sodium’s harmful effects.

Key WHO Recommendations:

• Daily sodium intake should be restricted to less than 2 grams per day, equivalent to about 5 grams of salt.
• Avoid regular table salt, and replace it, wherever safe, with LSSS for household use.
• LSSS use is not recommended for:
  1. Pregnant women
  2. Children
  3. Individuals with kidney impairments or those requiring low-potassium diets
• The guidelines do not apply to packaged or restaurant foods, which are major contributors to overall sodium intake.

Why Is This Important or India?

• Salt Intake in India: Average salt consumption is 10.4 grams/day, over double the WHO recommendation.
• Hypertension Prevalence: Over 35.5% of India’s population (approx. 315 million people) suffers from hypertension (INDIAB Study).
• CVD Burden: Cardiovascular diseases accounted for 28.1% of all deaths in India (2016) – Global Burden of Disease Study.
• Dietary Impact: Globally, 8 million deaths annually are diet-related, with 1.9 million directly linked to high sodium intake.

Implementation and Policy Measures:

• India’s Response:
  • The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated sodium reduction policies.
  • Edible salt must contain 97% sodium chloride, with anticaking agents limited to 2.2%.
  • New labelling norms enforce accurate “low sodium” and “sodium-free” claims.

Public Health and Safety Considerations:

• While LSSS are safe and beneficial for most adults, excess potassium can cause hyperkalemia, especially dangerous for those with kidney disease.
• WHO guidelines aim to maximize benefits and minimize risks by promoting regulated, evidence-based usage.
• Governments, policymakers, and health professionals are urged to integrate LSSS into public health strategies, especially in high-risk populations.

About WHO:

• Established in 1948, the World Health Organization is the UN agency dedicated to promoting global health, preventing disease, and coordinating international health responses.
• It leads efforts for universal health coverage and responds to global health emergencies.

In News:

DeepSeek, a Chinese artificial intelligence (AI) startup based in Hangzhou, has emerged as a major player in the global AI race with the release of its models DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1.

These models are designed to rival top-tier Western counterparts such as OpenAI’s GPT-4, Google’s Bard, and Meta’s LLaMA, but at a fraction of the cost.

Key Developments and Technological Edge

• Cost Efficiency: DeepSeek-V3 was trained at a cost of under $6 million, using older Nvidia H800 chips, compared to the estimated $100 million cost of GPT-4. Its subscription fee is significantly lower—$0.50/month versus $20/month for ChatGPT.
• Model Performance:
  • DeepSeek-R1, a “reasoning model,” reportedly matches OpenAI’s o1 model in mathematics, coding, and contextual processing, while using fewer resources through incremental reasoning.
  • Models use Mixture-of-Experts (MoE) architecture, reinforcement learning, and self-improvement loops, making them more memory-efficient and scalable.
• Advanced Models Released:
  • DeepSeek Coder / Coder-V2 (for coding tasks).
  • DeepSeek LLM (67B parameters), V2, V3 (671B parameters), and R1-Distill (fine-tuned using synthetic data).

Global Impact and Market Disruption

• App Success & Outages: The DeepSeek AI app topped the U.S. App Store, surpassing ChatGPT. This success triggered large-scale cyberattacks and caused temporary service disruptions.
• Market Reaction: The launch reportedly led to a historic $600 billion drop in Nvidia's market value, highlighting the disruptive potential of cost-efficient AI innovation.
• Geopolitical Ramifications: The rise of DeepSeek is seen as a technological parallel to the 1957 Sputnik moment, which shocked the U.S. and triggered the space race.
  DeepSeek has reignited US-China AI rivalry, intensifying great-power competition in frontier technologies.

Strategic Lessons for India

• Bipolar AI Landscape: The U.S. and China dominate AI due to massive investment and infrastructure. Middle powers like India and France face the challenge of staying relevant without matching this scale.
• Doing More with Less: DeepSeek’s success underscores how innovation with limited resources can be effective—providing a model for India to emulate via Small Language Models (SLMs) and cost-efficient AI strategies.
• Sovereign AI & Global Governance:
  • India advocates for “Sovereign AI”, balancing independence and strategic alliances, especially with France and the U.S.
  • Future cooperation between U.S. and China on AI governance, similar to Cold War-era nuclear agreements, is a possibility.
  • India must learn from past exclusions (e.g., nuclear governance) and proactively shape global AI governance frameworks.
• Policy Implications:
  • DeepSeek's rise may lead to stricter U.S. chip export restrictions to China.
  • It presents both security risks (censorship, pro-China bias) and opportunities (cost-effective models, domestic self-reliance).

Ethical Concerns and Limitations

• Censorship: DeepSeek complies with Chinese state censorship, refusing responses on politically sensitive topics (e.g., Tiananmen Square), raising concerns about bias and lack of transparency.

Security & Privacy: Experts have flagged potential data privacy and AI ethics issues, emphasizing the need for robust global standards and accountability mechanisms.

In News:

A recent study conducted by Assam Medical College and Hospital has revealed a high prevalence of Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA) among tuberculosis (TB) survivors in Assam’s tea garden communities. Published in the PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases journal, the research underscores a significant public health concern in a region already burdened by TB.

What is Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis (CPA)?

• CPA is a severe, life-threatening fungal infection caused by Aspergillus fumigatus, a filamentous fungus commonly found in soil, decaying vegetation, and humid organic matter.
• It predominantly affects individuals with weakened immune systems or pre-existing lung conditions, especially those who have recovered from or are currently battling TB.
• CPA is not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.

Symptoms and Clinical Presentation:

CPA shares many clinical features with TB, making diagnosis challenging:

• Chronic cough
• Haemoptysis (coughing up blood)
• Persistent respiratory symptoms
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing

Key Findings from Assam:

• Study Area: Conducted in Dibrugarh district, covering tea workers and their dependents from four major tea estates.
• Sample Size: 128 patients with prolonged respiratory symptoms (>3 months).
• Prevalence:
  • CPA prevalence: 17.18% overall
  • Seropositivity in active TB patients: 18.5%
  • Seropositivity in post-TB patients: Spiked to 48.9%, indicating a strong link between CPA and previous TB infections.
• Demographic Insights:
  • Mean age: 41.9 years
  • Higher incidence among middle-aged male workers
• Comparison with Global Trends:
  • Assam’s CPA prevalence (60 per 1,00,000) exceeds the global average (42 per 1,00,000)
  • Worse than several African nations including Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo (20–50 per 1,00,000)

Contributing Risk Factors in Assam’s Tea Belt:

• High TB burden: 217 per 1,00,000 (National TB Prevalence Survey 2019–2021)
• Poverty and malnutrition
• Kitchen smoke exposure
• Congested living conditions
• Delayed or inadequate TB treatment

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Diagnosis:
  • Serological testing for Aspergillus antibodies
  • Radiological imaging to identify fungal growth in lung cavities
• Treatment:
  • Antifungal therapy (e.g., itraconazole or voriconazole)
  • Surgical removal in severe cases with fungal mass

Public Health Recommendations:

• Routine screening of post-TB patients for CPA in high-risk zones like tea estates
• Awareness campaigns targeting healthcare providers and workers to improve recognition and response
• Education on nutrition, respiratory hygiene, and early symptom detection
• Inclusion of fungal diseases like CPA in broader national TB and occupational health programs

Additional Context: Epidemic Dropsy in Assam’s Tea Belt

• A 2019 study had previously flagged the prevalence of epidemic dropsy, a condition caused by contaminated edible oils with Argemone mexicana oil, adding to the health risks in tea-growing regions.

In News:

The Pune Health Department has reported a surge in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, prompting concern due to its severe neurological impact and association with prior infections or immune responses.

What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?

• Nature of Disorder: A rare autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nervous system, affecting voluntary muscle control and sensory signals (e.g., pain, temperature, and touch).
• Medical Term: Also known as Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP).
• System Affected: Peripheral nerves, i.e., nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.

Epidemiology:

• Prevalence: Rare but potentially life-threatening.
• Age Group Affected: Can occur at any age but is most common between 30 to 50 years.
• Non-contagious: GBS is not transmitted from person to person.

Causes and Triggers:

• Exact Cause: Unknown, but usually follows an immune response to:
  • Infections: Campylobacter jejuni (foodborne bacteria), Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), respiratory or urinary tract infections.
  • Vaccinations: Rarely observed post-immunisation.
  • Surgery or trauma: Can act as physical stressors that trigger the syndrome.

Symptoms:

• Initial Signs: Tingling and weakness starting in the legs, progressing upwards.
• Progression:
  • Weakness in arms, facial muscles.
  • Difficulty walking or balancing.
  • In severe cases, respiratory paralysis, requiring ventilator support.
• Onset: Can escalate within hours, days, or weeks.
• Range: Varies from mild muscle weakness to complete paralysis.

Impact:

• Neurological Disruption: Affects communication between the brain and muscles.
• Temporary but Debilitating: Most patients recover over weeks to months, though rehabilitation may be prolonged.
• Critical Care: May require intensive medical and respiratory support in acute stages.

Diagnosis & Treatment:

• No definitive cure, but early intervention improves outcomes.
• Main Treatments:

• Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG):
  • Contains healthy antibodies from donated blood.
  • Helps suppress the immune attack on nerves.
• Plasmapheresis (Plasma Exchange): Filters harmful antibodies from the blood.
• Supportive Therapy:
  • Mechanical ventilation in case of respiratory failure.
  • Physiotherapy for muscle recovery and mobility.

In News:

India is set to deploy its first human-operated deep-sea submersible as part of the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM), marking a significant leap in the country’s marine research and technological capability.

Key Highlights:

• Submersible Deployment (2024):
  • India will operate its first human submersible at a depth of 500 meters this year.
  • The goal is to reach a depth of 6,000 meters by 2025.
  • The project aligns with the timelines of Gaganyaan, India’s first human space mission—showcasing parallel progress in marine and space technology.
• Indigenous Technology:
  • The mission is powered by 100% indigenous technology, underlining India’s growing self-reliance in high-end scientific infrastructure.

About Deep Ocean Mission (DOM):

• Launched: 2021
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
• Budget: ?4,077 crore over five years
• Framework: One of nine key missions under PM-STIAC (Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council)

Core Objectives:

• Develop deep-sea technologies, including a manned submersible for ocean exploration.
• Explore and harness ocean resources such as: Polymetallic nodules, Hydrothermal sulphides & Rare earth metals
• Study marine biodiversity for sustainable fisheries and conservation.
• Support India’s blue economy through innovation and research.
• Monitor ocean climate change and develop advisory services.
• Promote marine biology and biotechnology via dedicated marine research stations.
• Harvest renewable energy and freshwater from ocean sources.

Key Components and Technologies:

Matsya6000 Submersible:

• India’s first manned deep-sea vehicle.
• Designed to reach 6,000 meters depth.
• Crew Capacity: Three members
• Developed by: National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai
• Structure: Made of titanium alloy, withstanding 6,000 bar pressure
• Equipped with: Scientific sensors, tools for sampling, viewports, propellers, and acoustic communication systems.
• Combines capabilities of ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) and AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles).

Varaha Deep-Ocean Mining System:

• Developed by NIOT
• Successfully conducted trials at 5,270 meters
• Key to India’s future in deep-sea mining of critical minerals

Strategic Importance:

• Scientific Advancement: DOM places India among a select group of nations (USA, Russia, China, France, Japan) with human-crewed deep-ocean exploration capacity.
• Economic Potential: Unlocks access to underwater mineral wealth, critical for electronics, defense, and energy sectors.
• Environmental Sustainability: Supports marine biodiversity conservation and promotes sustainable use of oceanic resources.
• Geopolitical Significance: Enhances India’s presence and influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Technological Leap: Strengthens India’s capabilities in underwater robotics, materials engineering, and ocean sciences.

In News:

The Prime Minister of India praised Indian space startup Digantara for the successful launch of Mission SCOT (Space Camera for Object Tracking) — the world’s first commercial SSA satellite, launched via SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rideshare mission.

What is Mission SCOT?

Feature                            Description

Developer                       Digantara (Indian space startup), supported by Aditya Birla Ventures & SIDBI

Launched on                  SpaceX Transporter-12 mission (rideshare platform)

Type                                First commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellite

Orbit                             Sun-Synchronous Orbit – ideal for consistent Earth observation

Function                       Tracks Resident Space Objects (RSOs) as small as 5 cm in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)

What is Space Situational Awareness (SSA)?

• SSA involves the detection, tracking, cataloging, and prediction of natural and man-made objects in Earth's orbit (like satellites, debris, etc.).
• Ensures safe and sustainable operations by minimizing collision risks.
• Critical due to increasing congestion in LEO, especially with rising numbers of small satellites and mega-constellations.

Key Features of Mission SCOT

Feature                                       Advantage

High Revisit Rate                          More frequent observations of objects in orbit

Precision Tracking                        Can track debris ≥ 5 cm in size

All-Weather Monitoring               Overcomes limitations of ground-based systems like cloud cover, FoV

Space-based System                      Unhindered by geography, providing continuous global surveillance

Supports SSA Infrastructure       Aids in collision avoidance, space traffic management, and defence preparedness

???????? India’s SSA Ecosystem

Initiative                                                                     Role

ISRO’s IS4OM                                                          Provides Indian Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR); enables safe & sustainable space operations

NETRA Project                                                 Network for Space Objects Tracking & Analysis – aims to build a dedicated SST (Space Surveillance & Tracking) network using radars & optical telescopes

Multi-Object Tracking Radar                                Operated at Sriharikota – limited range, being augmented

Collision Avoidance Manoeuvres (CAMs)           Regularly performed by ISRO to protect its satellites from debris threats

Global Context: Transporter-12 Rideshare

• A SpaceX program providing low-cost access to space by allowing multiple customers to launch small payloads on a single rocket.
• Enhances global commercial space activity, democratizes space access.

Significance for India

Strategic:

• Strengthens national space defence by enabling indigenous tracking of space threats.
• Reduces reliance on foreign SSA data (e.g., NORAD/US Space Command).

Technological:

• Demonstrates India’s capability in space-based surveillance tech.
• Positions India as a global contributor in the emerging SSA domain.

Economic:

• Boosts private sector space innovation aligned with India’s NewSpace Policy.
• Attracts venture capital and international collaboration.

In News:

In 2024, an international team of astronomers using NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and the Chandra X-ray Observatory discovered a low-mass supermassive black hole, LID-568, showing super-Eddington accretion—a rare and extreme feeding process—just 1.5 billion years after the Big Bang.

About LID-568

Feature                     Description

Type                          Low-mass supermassive black hole

Age                          Formed ~1.5 billion years after Big Bang (Universe’s “youth”)

Discovery                Observed via Chandra (X-ray) & JWST (infrared)

Location                  In a distant galaxy with very low star formation

Feeding Rate          Accreting at ~40× the Eddington limit (super-Eddington accretion)

Key Concepts

Eddington Limit

• Theoretical upper limit on how fast matter can fall into a black hole before radiation pressure balances gravitational pull.
• Exceeding this limit (super-Eddington) is thought to be unstable and short-lived.

Super-Eddington Accretion

• Observed in LID-568, feeding at 40× Eddington rate.
• Suggests rapid, short bursts of black hole growth, not the slow, steady model previously assumed.

Why is LID-568 Important?

Challenges Current Theories

• Traditional black hole growth models require:
  • Long periods (hundreds of millions of years).
  • Seed black holes formed from:
    • Death of first stars (light seeds: 10–100 solar masses).
    • Collapse of primordial gas clouds (heavy seeds: 1,000–100,000 solar masses).
• LID-568 suggests brief, intense growth spurts could create supermassive black holes faster than previously thought.

Impact on Host Galaxy

• Powerful outflows prevent gas accumulation → suppresses star formation.
• Indicates black holes can regulate galaxy evolution, even when young.

In News:

On 21 January 2025, DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) successfully conducted a 120-second ground test of an indigenously developed Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) engine, marking a major milestone in India’s journey towards hypersonic missile technology.

What is Scramjet Technology?

Definition

A Scramjet is an air-breathing engine that sustains combustion at supersonic speeds—optimized for speeds above Mach 5 (hypersonic range).

Working Principle

• Utilizes vehicle’s forward motion to compress incoming air—no onboard oxidizer needed.
• Injects fuel into the compressed supersonic airflow → ignition → high-speed thrust.
• Operates without moving parts, making it lightweight, efficient, and reliable.

Key Indigenous Innovations

Feature                                        Description

Active-Cooled Combustor        Stable combustion achieved at 1.5 km/s airflow, comparable to "keeping a candle lit in a hurricane."

Endothermic Scramjet Fuel     First-time development in India; offers cooling + ignition efficiency.

Thermal Barrier Coating (TBC)   Jointly developed with DST; withstands temperatures beyond melting point of steel using advanced ceramic coating.

CFD Simulations                         Used for design optimization and performance validation of flame-holding techniques.

Significance of Scramjet Test

• Stable Combustion: A major challenge in hypersonic propulsion, now successfully demonstrated.
• Hypersonic Missiles:
  • Speeds >Mach 5 (~5400 km/h).
  • Bypass air defence systems due to speed and maneuverability.
  • Enable rapid, high-impact delivery.
• Reusable Launch Vehicles:
  • Cuts satellite launch costs via air-breathing propulsion.
• Strategic Edge:
  • India joins elite group: USA, Russia, China.
  • Strengthens defence deterrence & technological sovereignty.
• Technology Spillover: Advancements in CFD, materials science, flame stabilization, and fuel chemistry.

Global Hypersonic Race

• China (2021): Tested nuclear-capable hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) that orbited Earth before hitting target.
• USA & Russia: Advanced programs with operational hypersonic systems (e.g., Avangard, Zircon, ARRW).
• India: Now developing indigenous hypersonic missile platform.

In News:

On 21 January 2025, DRDO’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory (DRDL) successfully conducted a 120-second ground test of an indigenously developed Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet) engine, marking a major milestone in India’s journey towards hypersonic missile technology.

What is Scramjet Technology?

Definition

A Scramjet is an air-breathing engine that sustains combustion at supersonic speeds—optimized for speeds above Mach 5 (hypersonic range).

Working Principle

• Utilizes vehicle’s forward motion to compress incoming air—no onboard oxidizer needed.
• Injects fuel into the compressed supersonic airflow → ignition → high-speed thrust.
• Operates without moving parts, making it lightweight, efficient, and reliable.

Key Indigenous Innovations

Feature                                        Description

Active-Cooled Combustor        Stable combustion achieved at 1.5 km/s airflow, comparable to "keeping a candle lit in a hurricane."

Endothermic Scramjet Fuel     First-time development in India; offers cooling + ignition efficiency.