In News:

Kodo millet is a staple food for many tribal and economically weaker sections in India. It is one of the 'hardiest crops, drought tolerant with high yield potential and excellent storage properties,' according to researchers

Background on Kodo Millet:

• Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum), also known as Kodra or Varagu, is a hardy, drought-tolerant crop widely grown in India, especially in Madhya Pradesh.
• It is a staple food for many tribal and economically weaker sections of India and is used to make various dishes like idli, dosa, and rotis.
• Kodo millet is valued for its high yield, nutritional benefits (rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants), and storage properties.

Incident in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve:

• 10 elephants from a herd of 13 died over three days in Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve.
• The cause of death was suspected to be mycotoxins associated with kodo millet, particularly Cyclopiazonic Acid (CPA), which is toxic to animals.

Historical Cases of Kodo Poisoning:

• The first human cases of kodo poisoning were reported in 1922 in the Indian Medical Gazette.
• Animals, including elephants, have also been affected by kodo millet consumption, with documented deaths as early as 1983.
• Cyclopiazonic Acid (CPA), a mycotoxin, was identified as the cause of kodo poisoning in the 1980s.

Why Does Kodo Millet Become Poisonous?

• Kodo millet is grown in dry and semi-arid regions and is vulnerable to fungal infections, particularly Ergot fungus, which produces CPA.
• When the crop encounters rainfall during maturing and harvesting, fungal infection can lead to "poisoned kodo," known locally as 'Matawna Kodoo' or 'Matona Kodo'.
• The mycotoxins in the infected millet are stable and resistant to standard food processing techniques.

Impact of Mycotoxins on Animals:

• Symptoms of poisoning: Vomiting, giddiness, unconsciousness, rapid pulse, cold extremities, limb tremors.
• Nervous and cardiovascular systems are primarily affected, causing liver dysfunction, heart damage, and gastrointestinal issues.
• In severe cases, consumption of infected kodo millet can cause death due to cardiovascular collapse and organ failure.
• Similar symptoms of depression and loss of mobility were observed in animal studies, including in mice.

Solution to Kodo Toxicity:

• Biocontrol agents (organisms that fight harmful pathogens) can help reduce fungal growth and mycotoxin production in kodo millet.
• Good agricultural practices: Sorting, proper storage in airtight containers, and avoiding moisture exposure during threshing can minimize contamination.
• Post-harvest management: Removing infected grains is crucial to preventing the spread of the disease.

Detection of Mycotoxins in Kodo Millet:

• Challenges: Mycotoxins are often undetectable by sight, and traditional methods like chromatography are time-consuming.
• Rapid detection tools: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), lateral flow assays (LFAs), and biosensors offer faster, on-site methods for detecting mycotoxins in kodo millet.

In News:

Centre for Science and Environment release a report on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Plastic Packaging

Key Findings:

• EPR Guidelines (2022) were a step towards enforcing the "polluter pays" principle, but the system faces significant issues in its implementation and registration processes.
• Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) report, released on October 29, 2024, highlights gaps in the EPR system for plastic packaging and suggests corrective actions.

EPR Guidelines Overview:

• Issued by: Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
• Objective: Hold producers, importers, brand owners (PIBOs), and plastic waste processors (PWPs) responsible for managing plastic packaging waste.
• Key Requirements:
  • PIBOs must register on a centralized portal and set targets for collection, recycling, and reuse of plastic packaging.
  • Registration involves compliance with targets on end-of-life recycling and recycled content usage.

Problems Identified in the Current EPR System:

• Low Registration and Enrollment:
  • 41,577 registrations on the EPR portal, but a significant discrepancy in the type of stakeholders registered.
  • 83% of registered entities are importers, 11% are producers, and only 6% are brand owners.
  • Producers contribute 65% of the plastic packaging in the market but have low registration.
• Absence of Key Polluters:
  • Manufacturers of virgin plastics are notably absent from the portal, despite being required to register.
• Fraudulent Practices:
  • 700,000 fake certificates were generated by plastic recyclers, far exceeding the actual certificate generation capacity.
  • The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) found that such fraudulent activities are undermining the integrity of the system.
  • For example, end-of-life co-processing units (e.g., cement plants) claimed to have processed 335.4 million tonnes per annum of plastic waste, while their actual capacity is just 11.4 million tonnes per annum.
• Underreporting and Mismanagement:
  • Despite 23.9 million tonnes of plastic packaging being introduced into the market, the CPCB’s estimation of plastic waste generation (4.1 MT annually) is underestimated.
• Lack of Stakeholder Representation:
  • Urban local bodies and informal waste collectors—key contributors to plastic waste management—are not included in the EPR framework, which limits their incentives and support.

Recommendations for Improvement:

• Incorporate the Informal Sector:
  • Recognize informal waste collectors and waste management agencies in the EPR framework to improve traceability and ensure better waste management.
• Eliminate Fraudulent Practices:
  • Strict actions need to be taken against fraudulent recyclers and fake certificate issuers to restore credibility to the EPR system.
• Establish Fair Pricing for EPR Certificates:
  • Undertake baseline cost studies to determine the true costs of plastic waste management, ensuring fair pricing for recycling certificates and preventing undervaluation.
• Standardize Packaging:
  • Focus on product standardization to ensure that packaging materials are uniform and easily recyclable.
• Strengthen Monitoring:
  • Improve oversight on the registration process and ensure that all polluters (producers, importers, brand owners) comply with the system’s guidelines.

EPR and Plastic Waste Management: Context and Importance

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach where the responsibility of managing the entire lifecycle of plastic products (from production to disposal) lies with the producer.
• It is an essential part of India’s Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016), which mandate the recycling and proper disposal of plastic packaging waste.

Key Elements of EPR:

• Producer Accountability: Producers are responsible for the take-back, recycling, and final disposal of plastic packaging.
• Waste Minimization: Encourages reducing waste at the source by promoting sustainable packaging designs.
• Lifecycle Approach: Considers the entire lifecycle of the product, focusing on sustainability from production to disposal.
• Polluter Pays Principle: Ensures that the cost of waste management is borne by those responsible for generating the waste.

In News:

The updated NBSAP was released by India at the 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).

Overview of the NBSAP (2024-30):

• Title:Updated National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plan: A Roadmap for Conservation of India’s Biodiversity.
• Objective: To provide a comprehensive roadmap for biodiversity conservation, aligning with global frameworks like the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).

Key Features of the Updated NBSAP:

• Alignment with Global Frameworks:
  • The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) adopted in 2022 aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030.
  • India’s updated NBSAP aligns with KMGBF’s goals, focusing on biodiversity conservation, sustainable resource use, and ensuring fair benefit-sharing.
• 23 National Biodiversity Targets:
  • The targets are focused on three key themes:
    • Reducing threats to biodiversity
    • Ensuring sustainable use of biodiversity
    • Enhancing tools for biodiversity implementation
• Key Domains of Focus:
  • Area-based conservation: Protecting ecosystems and habitats.
  • Ecosystem resilience: Enhancing the ability of ecosystems to withstand environmental stressors.
  • Recovery and conservation of threatened species.
  • Conservation of agrobiodiversity: Ensuring the sustainability of agricultural biodiversity.
  • Sustainable management of biodiversity.
  • Enabling tools and solutions: Including financial and technical support for implementation.
• Financial Plan and Expenditure:
  • Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER) estimated an average annual expenditure of Rs 32,20,713 crore (FY 2017-2022) for biodiversity conservation.
  • Future funding requirements (FY 2024-2030) estimated at Rs 81,664.88 crore annually at the central government level.
  • Biodiversity Finance Plan suggests financing solutions, including public finance, corporate social responsibility (CSR), Ecological Fiscal Transfer (EFT), and Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) mechanisms.
• Capacity Building:
  • The NBSAP stresses the need for capacity building across various levels—national, state, and local.
  • Focus on skills acquisition for biodiversity management and enhancing knowledge to implement conservation strategies.

Implementation Framework:

• Multi-Level Governance:
  • At the national level, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) will oversee implementation with involvement from 22 other ministries.
  • State-level: Involves State Biodiversity Boards and Union Territory Biodiversity Councils.
  • Local level: Community-driven efforts through Biodiversity Management Committees.
• BIOFIN and Resource Mobilization:
  • India is recognized as a leading country in the implementation of the Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN).
  • Encouragement for private entrepreneurs, businesses, and international donors to invest in biodiversity through innovative financial instruments like:
    • Green Bonds
    • Green Funds
    • Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES)
• Incentives for Financial Solutions:
  • India aims to explore funding from corporate social responsibility (CSR), ecological fiscal transfers, and access and benefit sharing mechanisms to meet the financial needs for biodiversity conservation.

Challenges and Strategies:

• Challenges India Faces:
  • Habitat fragmentation
  • Pollution
  • Illegal wildlife trade
  • Adverse effects of climate change
• Strategic Responses:
  • The updated NBSAP provides strategies to address these challenges, ensuring comprehensive conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity.

In News:

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate change has constituted a team to enquire into the death of ten elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh. The team is conducting an independent enquiry in the matter.

• Incident Overview:
  • Ten elephants found dead in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, between October 29-31, 2024.
  • Preliminary cause of death suspected to be poisoning; final cause pending postmortem and toxicological analysis.
• Government Actions:
  • Union Government:
    • The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) has set up a team to conduct an independent investigation into the deaths.
  • Madhya Pradesh Government:
    • Constituted a five-member State-level inquiry committee, headed by the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF, Wildlife).
    • Committee includes members from civil society, scientists, and veterinarians.
    • The State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) is conducting field investigations, combing surrounding areas for further clues.
  • Other Involved Authorities:
    • The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Chief Wildlife Warden of Madhya Pradesh are directly supervising the inquiry in Bandhavgarh.
    • Senior officials from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) have visited the site for discussions and investigation.

About Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB):

• Mandate:
  • Combats organized wildlife crime through intelligence gathering and coordination with enforcement agencies.
  • Develops wildlife crime data and assists in prosecutions.
  • Provides capacity building for wildlife crime enforcement agencies.
• Operations & Initiatives:
  • Conducts operations like SAVE KURMA, THUNDERBIRD, WILDNET, and more to counter wildlife crimes.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• Headquarters: New Delhi.

In News:

Scientists have discovered a "black hole triple" system, which is a rare configuration in space involving one black hole and two stars.

Overview of the Discovery:

• Location: The system is located 8,000 light years away from Earth, in the constellation Cygnus.
• Key Features:
  • A black hole at the center, currently consuming a star that is spiraling very close to it.
  • A second, more distant star that orbits the black hole every 70,000 years, and another star that orbits it every 6.5 days.

What is a Black Hole Triple System?

• Black Hole and Two Stars: Unlike typical binary systems (comprising a black hole and one other object), this system contains a black hole surrounded by two stars, one nearby and one far away.
• V404 Cygni: The central black hole in the system is the V404 Cygni, one of the oldest known black holes, roughly 9 times the mass of the Sun.

Significance of the Discovery:

• Questions on Black Hole Formation: The discovery raises new questions about how black holes are formed. Traditionally, black holes are thought to form after the explosion of a massive star (supernova), but this system does not follow that model.
• New Formation Theory: Researchers suggest the black hole may have formed via a "direct collapse" process, where a star collapses into a black hole without undergoing a supernova explosion. This is referred to as a "failed supernova".
  • In a failed supernova, the star's collapse happens too quickly for the explosive outer layers to be ejected, leading to the formation of a black hole without the typical violent explosion.

Implications for Other Binary Systems:

• The black hole’s gradual consumption of one of its stars may imply that some binary black hole systems could have originally been triple systems, with one star eventually being consumed by the black hole.

Research and Collaboration:

• Study: The discovery was made by researchers at California Institute of Technology (Caltech) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
• Published in: The findings were published in Nature in October 2024.

Additional Context:

• Distance: The system is about 8,000 light years away, which is vast but still observable with advanced telescopes.
• Mystery of the "Failed Supernova": The concept of a failed supernova offers new insights into the life cycle of massive stars and their transformation into black holes.

In News:

In a significant leap for the country’s space exploration aspirations, India has embarked on its first analogue space mission in Leh, a landmark step that will attempt to simulate life in an interplanetary habitat to tackle the challenges of a base station beyond Earth.

Mission Overview:

• Objective: To simulate living conditions in an interplanetary habitat, addressing challenges astronauts may face during deep-space missions (e.g., Moon, Mars).
• Goal: Study long-term isolation, habitat design, resource management, and psychological effects on astronauts.
• Partners: ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre, AAKA Space Studio, University of Ladakh, IIT Bombay, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council.

Rationale for Ladakh:

• Geological Similarities: Ladakh’s terrain mirrors Martian and lunar surfaces, making it ideal for testing space technologies.
• Climate: Cold, dry, high-altitude conditions simulate the extreme environments of space.
• Focus Areas: Testing habitat construction, microbial studies, and survival strategies for long-duration space travel.

What are Analogue Space Missions?

• Definition: Simulated space missions on Earth designed to replicate the conditions of space exploration.
• Purpose:
  • Test technologies (e.g., life support, habitat design, in-situ resource utilization).
  • Study human behavior, psychological impacts of isolation, and operational readiness for extended space travel.
• Relevance: Crucial for preparing astronauts for missions to the Moon, Mars, or asteroids.

Significance of Analogue Missions:

• Technological Testing: Analogue missions help in evaluating systems for habitat design, life support, and health monitoring.
• Human Factors: They provide insights into crew health, teamwork under pressure, and performance during isolation.
• Psychological Studies: Address the impact of confinement, isolation, and communication delays on astronauts.
• Training: Participants (analogue astronauts) are trained for real-world space missions by conducting scientific experiments and managing emergencies.

Global Examples of Analogue Missions:

• NASA’s NEEMO: An underwater mission simulating microgravity conditions to train astronauts for space tasks.
• SIRIUS Program (UAE): Focuses on the psychological impacts of long-duration space isolation, featuring international collaborations.
• Arctic Mars Analogue Svalbard Expedition (AMASE): Uses the extreme Arctic environment of Svalbard to test Mars exploration technologies and procedures.

Relation to India’s Space Aspirations:

• Gaganyaan Mission: ISRO’s human spaceflight mission aiming to send Indian astronauts into space.
• Interplanetary Exploration: The analogue mission supports India’s broader goal of advancing human space exploration and technology development for Mars and beyond.

In News:

• Odisha government relocated a tigress from Maharashtra’s Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve to Similipal Tiger Reserve, Odisha, to address inbreeding issues among the tiger population.
• The tigress is part of a genetic diversification plan to remedy the increasing number of pseudo-melanistic tigers in the region.

Pseudo-melanistic Tigers:

• Pseudo-melanistic tigers, often referred to as "black tigers," exhibit a darker coat with broader, more prominent stripes.
• The mutation leads to the appearance of a mostly black fur, with occasional white-orange stripes.

Genetic Basis:

• This coloration is due to a mutation in the Taqpep gene, which causes the widening and darkening of stripes on the tiger's coat.
• The mutation is linked to genetic drift and inbreeding within the isolated Similipal population.

Historical Context:

• These tigers were once considered mythical until the 1700s, with sightings only being documented in the 1990s and 2017-18.
• The first confirmed genetic evidence of the black tiger appeared when a cub was born in captivity at Oklahoma City Zoo in the 1970s.

Distribution and Prevalence:

• Pseudo-melanistic tigers are predominantly found in Similipal Tiger Reserve, with 27 out of 30 tigers in Odisha exhibiting the trait.
• Other instances of such tigers exist in captivity, such as in Nandankanan Zoological Park (Bhubaneswar) and Arignar Anna Zoological Park (Chennai), both tracing ancestry to Similipal.

Genetic Studies:

• A 2021 study by the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) linked the Taqpep gene mutation to the unique appearance of these tigers.
• The mutation causes a missense change in the gene, replacing Cytosine with Thymine (C1360T), altering the tiger’s coat pattern.

High Frequency of Mutation in Similipal:

• Genetic analyses indicate a high frequency of the Taqpep gene mutation in Similipal tigers, with a 60% chance that a tiger born there will carry the mutated gene.
• Inbreeding and genetic isolation have contributed to this phenomenon, as Similipal’s tiger population is geographically cut off from other populations.

In News:

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a cutting-edge remote sensing technology that uses laser pulses to measure distances and create detailed 3D maps of Earth's surface. This technology has recently played a crucial role in discovering a lost Mayan city hidden under the dense Mexican jungle.

What is LiDAR?

• Definition: LiDAR is a remote sensing technology that uses pulsed laser light to measure distances and generate precise 3D models of Earth’s surface.
• Components: The system includes a laser, a scanner, and a GPS receiver. It is usually mounted on an aircraft to map large areas of terrain.
• Data Accuracy: LiDAR can create high-resolution 3D models with vertical accuracy up to 10 cm, making it highly precise for mapping ground elevation.

How LiDAR Works

• Laser Emission: LiDAR sends out rapid laser pulses toward the ground.
• Reflection: These pulses hit the Earth’s surface, reflecting off features like vegetation, buildings, and terrain.
• Measurement: The time it takes for the laser light to travel to the ground and back is measured, allowing the system to calculate the distance between the sensor and the surface.
• Point Cloud Data: The reflected light data is collected as a "point cloud", representing all the surfaces it hits, including trees, buildings, and other features.
• Refinement: This point cloud can be processed into a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), stripping away vegetation and structures to reveal the “bare earth,” which highlights features like roads, buildings, and hidden settlements.

Why LiDAR is Useful for Archaeologists

• Large-Scale Surveying: Traditional archaeological methods often involve labor-intensive fieldwork, such as walking over every square meter and manually cutting through thick vegetation. LiDAR, however, allows researchers to quickly survey vast areas of land, even through dense jungle, from the comfort of a lab.
• Visibility Under Vegetation: LiDAR’s ability to penetrate dense foliage and reveal features beneath the surface is a game changer. Even thick tree canopies that obscure the ground are no match for the laser pulses, which can pass through gaps to illuminate hidden structures.

The Discovery of the Lost Mayan City

• The City of Valeriana: Using publicly available LiDAR data from a forest monitoring project in 2013, archaeologist Luke Auld-Thomas discovered a lost Mayan city in Mexico’s Campeche region. The city, named Valeriana, had been hidden for centuries by the thick jungle.
• City Features: The city has all the hallmarks of a Classic Maya political capital, including:
  • Multiple enclosed plazas
  • Broad causeways
  • Temple pyramids
  • A ball court
  • A reservoir formed by damming a seasonal watercourse
• Historical Significance: Valeriana is believed to date back before 150 CE and may have been a key political and cultural center in the Maya civilization.

Applications of LiDAR Beyond Archaeology

• Geography and Mapping: LiDAR is widely used to generate precise, three-dimensional data about the Earth’s surface, helping geographers and planners.
• Environmental Monitoring: It is also used in forest monitoring, flood risk assessment, and environmental conservation.
• Urban Planning and Engineering: Engineers use LiDAR for creating highly accurate topographical maps and planning infrastructure projects.

In News:

• A novel anti-counterfeiting ink has been developed using luminescent nanomaterials, which significantly enhances security in currency, certificates, medicines, and branded goods.
• The ink utilizes the luminescent properties of rare earth ions and bismuth, enabling excitation-dependent luminescence under different light sources, providing a robust solution to combat counterfeiting.

Key Features:

• Multi-Wavelength Luminescence:
  • The ink exhibits distinct colors when exposed to various wavelengths of light:
    • Vibrant blue under 365 nm UV light
    • Pink under 395 nm UV light
    • Orange-red under 980 nm near-infrared (NIR) light
  • These varying color emissions make it difficult for counterfeiters to replicate, as traditional covert tags are visible only under UV light and can be easily duplicated.

• Enhanced Durability:
  • The ink remains effective under a wide range of conditions, including varying light, temperature, and humidity, ensuring long-term usability without degradation.
• Simple Application Method:
  • The luminescent nanomaterials are synthesized through a co-precipitation method at 120°C.
  • The resulting nanomaterials are then mixed into commercially available PVC ink using sonication, allowing for easy dispersion of nanoparticles.
  • The ink is applied using screen printing to create patterns and texts that exhibit distinct color changes under different lighting conditions.
• Security Features:
  • The ink combines rare earth ions with bismuth emissions, boosting its encryption and decryption capabilities. This creates a high level of security for applications on high-value items.

Applications:

• Currency and Certificates: Enhances the authenticity of financial instruments and official documents.
• Branded Goods: Protects products from counterfeiting and fraud.
• Medicines: Helps verify the authenticity of pharmaceutical products, preventing the distribution of fake medicines.

Benefits:

• Verification: Both consumers and manufacturers can easily verify the authenticity of products, providing an accessible solution to counterfeiting.
• Practical Solution: The ink offers a practical, reliable, and non-invasive method for detecting counterfeit products, addressing a global challenge in various industries.

In News:

The 2024 edition of The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change presents critical insights into the intersection of health and climate change.

Key Findings from the 2024 Report

• Air Pollution and Mortality in India:
  • In 2021, air pollution was responsible for 1.6 million deaths in India.
  • Fossil fuels (coal and liquid gas) were identified as major contributors, accounting for 38% of these deaths.
  • India was ranked as the second-highest emitter of PM2.5 globally in 2022, contributing 15.8% of consumption-based and 16.9% of production-based PM2.5 emissions.
• Impact of Heat Stress:
  • In 2023, India experienced 2400 hours (or 100 days) of moderate to high heat stress, particularly during light outdoor activities like walking.
  • Heatwaves have become more frequent, with adults over 65 years experiencing 8.4 heatwave days per year, a 58% increase from 1990-1999.
  • This increased heat exposure has led to a loss of 181 billion labor hours globally, translating into an economic loss of approximately $141 billion.
• Global and National Trends in Air Pollution:
  • PM2.5 is particularly hazardous because it is fine enough to enter the lungs and bloodstream, leading to severe health risks like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Nitrogen Dioxide (NO?), Sulphur Dioxide (SO?), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Ozone (O?) were identified as other pollutants contributing to poor air quality in India.
• Health Impact of Extreme Weather:
  • The 2023 heatwave was one of the hottest years on record, exacerbating health risks worldwide, especially for the elderly.
  • Droughts and heatwaves also contributed to a rise in food insecurity, affecting millions globally.
• Disease Transmission and Climate Change:
  • Dengue transmission potential rose by 85% from 1951-1960 to 2014-2023.
  • Coastal areas suitable for the spread of Vibrio pathogens, which cause cholera, expanded by 23%, affecting over 210 million people.
• Health Effects of Fossil Fuel Pollution:
  • Continued reliance on fossil fuels worsens air quality, leading to health problems such as respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Government Efforts to Tackle Air Pollution in India

• National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
  • NCAP is a national strategy to reduce air pollution across India, with specific action plans for 131 non-attainment cities. The initiative is supported through various central government schemes such as:
    1. Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban)
    2. Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
    3. Smart City Mission
    4. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME-II)
• Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) Emission Norms:
  • BS-VI standards aim to significantly reduce vehicular pollution, lowering permissible limits for NOx and particulate matter (PM) emissions from vehicles.
• System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR):
  • SAFAR measures air quality and provides forecasts for metropolitan cities based on real-time data, helping authorities take preventive actions.
• Promotion of Renewable Energy:
  • India achieved a record 11% of electricity from renewable energy in 2022. However, 71% of India’s electricity still comes from coal, underscoring the need for a faster transition to cleaner energy sources.

In News:

• The Union Government has decided to introduce four new components under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), aimed at promoting modern farming techniques:Hydroponics, Aquaponics, Vertical Farming&Precision Agriculture

Key Features of MIDH:

• MIDH is a Central Sponsored Scheme (CSS) aimed at the integrated development of various horticulture crops, including:
  • Fruits, vegetables, root and tuber crops, mushrooms, spices, flowers, aromatic plants, coconut, cashew, cocoa, and bamboo.
• The scheme focuses on pre-production, production, post-harvest management, processing, and marketing activities.

Revision of Operational Guidelines and Cost Norms:

• The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare is revising the MIDH operational guidelines and cost norms, which were last updated in April 2014.
• The revised guidelines are expected to be released within one month.
• Cost norms are likely to increase by 20% compared to the existing rates, addressing concerns from various states about outdated guidelines.

Reason for Revision:

• Several states, including Odisha, have raised concerns over the old rates under MIDH. For example, Odisha’s Agriculture Minister highlighted that the state was still using 10-year-old rates.
• The Union Cabinet had already approved the rationalization of all CSS operating under the Ministry into two umbrella schemes:
  • Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY)
  • Krishonnati Yojana (KY)

Growth in India's Horticulture Sector:

• India’s horticulture production has significantly increased in recent years:
  • Total production reached 334.60 million metric tonnes in 2020-21, up from 240.53 million metric tonnes in 2010-11.
• India is now the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables globally, surpassing food grain production.
• MIDH Annual Budget:The annual allocation for MIDH in the current financial year (2024-25) is ?2,000 crore.

In News:

According to the WMO, the last time the earth had a similar CO2 concentration was 3-5 million years ago, when temperatures were 2-3°C higher and sea levels were 10-20 metres higher than they are now

Key Highlights:

• Record High Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Levels:
  • In 2023, annual mean carbon dioxide (CO2) levels rose by 2.3 parts per million (ppm), reaching a new record of 420 ppm.
  • This marks the 12th consecutive year with an increase of over 2 ppm in CO2 levels.
• Historical Context:
  • CO2 levels not seen in 3-5 million years, when temperatures were 2-3°C higher, and sea levels were 10-20 meters higher than they are today.
• Key GHGs at Record Highs:
  • The globally averaged surface concentrations of CO2, methane, and nitrous oxide all reached new highs in 2023.
• Contributors to the Increase in CO2:
  • Natural Variability: Natural factors such as large vegetation fires and reduced carbon absorption by forests contributed to higher CO2 levels.
  • Human Activity: High fossil fuel emissions from human and industrial activities also played a major role.
  • El Niño Phenomenon: The El Niño event led to higher temperatures and drier conditions, exacerbating the rise in GHG levels through increased wildfires and reduced carbon absorption by land sinks.
• Climate Feedback Loop Concerns:
  • The WMO warned of a vicious cycle:
    • Climate change could cause ecosystems to become larger sources of GHGs.
    • Wildfires could release more carbon, and warmer oceans may absorb less CO2, leading to more CO2 remaining in the atmosphere, accelerating global warming.
• Radiative Forcing:
  • Radiative forcing (the warming effect on climate) from long-lived GHGs has increased by 51.5% from 1990 to 2023, with CO2 contributing 81% of this increase.
• Methane Concerns:
  • Methane saw its largest three-year increase between 2020 and 2022.
  • This increase was linked to warmer temperatures and wetter land conditions during the 2020-2022 La Niña conditions, which caused an uptick in methane emissions from natural wetlands.
• Long-Term Impact of CO2:
  • Given CO2's long atmospheric lifetime, even with rapid emissions reductions, the warming effect will persist for several decades.

In News:

• Recently, PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the Final Assembly Line (FAL) plant in Vadodara, Gujarat, for the manufacturing of the C-295 aircraft.
• The plant is a joint venture between Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) and Airbus.
• This is the first private sector final assembly line for military aircraft in India.

Key Details:

• Manufacturing Timeline
  • Contract: In September 2021, India signed a ?21,935 crore deal with Airbus Defence and Space to procure 56 C-295 aircraft to replace the IAF’s ageing Avro-748 fleet.
  • Production Plan:
    • The first 16 aircraft will be delivered from Airbus’s plant in Seville, Spain, between September 2023 and August 2025.
    • The remaining 40 aircraft will be produced in India by TASL, with the first “Made-in-India” C-295 rolling out in September 2026.
    • The entire fleet (56 aircraft) is expected to be delivered by August 2031.
• Key Features and Specifications
  • Type: Tactical transport aircraft with a capacity of 5 to 10 tonnes.
  • Maximum Speed: 480 km/h.
  • Cabin Dimensions: 12.7 meters (41 feet 8 inches), the longest unobstructed cabin in its class.
  • Passenger Capacity: Can accommodate up to 71 seats.
  • Cargo Handling: Rear ramp door for quick loading/unloading and para-dropping.
  • Short Take-off and Landing (STOL): Capable of operating from airstrips as short as 2,200 feet.
• Significance for the Indian Air Force (IAF)
  • The C-295 will enhance the medium-lift tactical capability of the IAF.
  • It will replace the ageing Soviet-origin AN-32 aircraft, which are nearing the end of their operational life.
  • The C-295 will bridge the capability gap in troop and cargo transport over short and medium distances.
• Indigenous Content
  • Indigenous Electronic Warfare Suite: All 56 aircraft will be equipped with an indigenous electronic warfare suite, developed by Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL).
  • Made-in-India Components: 96% of the work that Airbus does in Spain will be done at the Vadodara plant, making it one of the highest-ever indigenous contributions for an aircraft in India.
• Global Operations of the C-295
  • The C-295 is operational in various challenging terrains worldwide, including:
    • Brazilian jungles, Colombian mountains (South America)
    • Deserts of Algeria and Jordan (Middle East)
    • Cold climates of Poland and Finland (Europe)
    • Military operations in Chad, Iraq, and Afghanistan.
• Roles and Capabilities
  • Tactical Transport: Can transport troops and supplies from main airfields to forward operating airfields.
  • Short Take-off and Landing (STOL): Capable of operating from short, unprepared airstrips.
  • Low-level Operations: Can conduct low-speed, low-level missions at 110 knots.
  • Other Missions: Suitable for casualty evacuation, special missions, disaster relief, and maritime patrol.

In News:

India's first home-grown electric propulsion satellite to be launched in Dec.

Key Highlights:

• Objective of TDS-1:

• Purpose: To demonstrate electric propulsion technology for satellite steering, using solar-powered ionized gas.
• Goal: Reduce reliance on chemical fuel, making satellites lighter and more efficient.

• Key Benefits of Electric Propulsion:

• Weight Reduction: The technology can significantly cut down satellite mass. For example, a satellite weighing 4 tonnes could be reduced to around 2 tonnes.
• Fuel Efficiency: By using electric propulsion, the need for chemical fuel is minimized, allowing for a more efficient journey to geostationary orbit.

• Technology Details:

• Fuel Used: Gases like Argon are ionized using solar power to create propulsion.
• Process: The ionized gas is expelled at high speeds to generate thrust, pushing the satellite towards its desired orbit.

• Historical Context:

• The technology was first used in GSAT-9 (South Asia Satellite) in 2017 but with imported Russian components.
• TDS-1 marks the first fully indigenous development of electric propulsion technology by ISRO, highlighting India’s increasing space autonomy.

• Significance for India’s Space Program:

• Self-Reliance: TDS-1 reflects ISRO’s growing capacity to develop advanced space technologies domestically.
• Future Prospects: This breakthrough is expected to lead to more efficient satellite designs, enhancing India’s competitiveness in the global space industry.

In News:

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recently published the Emissions Gap Report 2024, in anticipation of the COP29 meeting of the UNFCCC to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Key Highlights:

• Current Trajectory of Global Warming:
  • If countries continue with current environmental policies, global temperatures are expected to rise by 3.1°C above pre-industrial levels.
  • This is significantly higher than the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to well below 2°C, with an effort to cap it at 1.5°C.
• Paris Agreement at Risk:
  • Even if all Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) are fully implemented (including both unconditional and conditional emissions reduction targets), the world would still experience 2.6°C of warming by 2030.
  • This presents a major challenge to achieving the Paris Agreement’s climate goals.
• Urgent Need for Action:
  • To limit global warming to 1.5°C, greenhouse gas emissions must peak before 2025 and decline by 43% by 2030.
  • The report highlights the emission gap between current pledges and what is required to meet the 1.5°C goal.
• Record High Emissions:
  • Global greenhouse gas emissions hit a record 57.1 gigatons of CO? equivalent in 2023.
  • This represents an increase of 1.3% compared to 2022, continuing the upward trend from the previous decade.
• India’s Emissions:
  • India’s greenhouse gas emissions grew by 6.1% between 2022 and 2023.
  • Per capita emissions in India were 2.9 tCO?e in 2022, significantly lower than China (11 tCO?e) and the U.S. (18 tCO?e).
• G20 Countries’ Contribution:
  • G20 countries, excluding the African Union, contributed 77% of global emissions in 2023.
  • The six largest emitters (including China, U.S., and India) were responsible for 63% of global emissions.
  • This shows a significant imbalance in emissions, with developed countries having much higher per capita emissions compared to developing nations like India and Africa.
• Necessary Emissions Cuts:
  • To keep the 1.5°C target within reach, global emissions need to be cut by at least 7.5% annually until 2035.
  • Cost of bridging the emissions gap: Achieving net-zero by 2050 will require USD 900 billion to USD 2.1 trillion annually, approximately 1% of global GDP.
• Emission Reduction Pathways:
  • Renewable Energy: Scaling up solar and wind energy technologies could contribute up to 27% of the required emissions reductions by 2030.
  • Forest Conservation: Protecting and restoring forests could provide 20% of the required emissions reductions by 2030.
  • Other crucial measures include improving energy efficiency, transitioning to electric vehicles, and focusing on fuel switching in key sectors like transport, industry, and buildings.
• Disparities in Emissions:
  • Despite changes over the past two decades, large disparities remain between emissions across regions.
  • Developed countries have three times higher per capita emissions compared to the global average, while India, the African Union, and least developed countries continue to have much lower emissions.
• Call to Action:
  • UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen urged countries to act now, stating: “No more hot air, please.” The urgency is to ramp up climate pledges and ensure stronger actions in the upcoming COP29 talks in Baku, Azerbaijan (November 2024), where nations must work to get on a 1.5°C pathway.

United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

• Established: 1972, following the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm.
• Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya.
• Governing Body: The United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), which is the world’s highest-level decision-making body on environmental matters, with 193 Member States.
• Programs & Initiatives: UNEP leads global efforts on climate action, ecosystem restoration, clean seas, and supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Reports: UNEP publishes crucial assessments like the Emissions Gap Report, Global Environment Outlook, and Adaptation Gap Report, influencing global environmental policies.

In News:

Hong Kong discovers dinosaur fossils for the first time

Key Details:

• • Significance: This marks the first-ever discovery of dinosaur fossils in Hong Kong.
• Time Period:The fossils date back to the Cretaceous Period, approximately 145 million to 66 million years ago.
• Fossil Details:The fossils belong to a large dinosaur, but further studies are required to determine the exact species.Initial analysis suggests the dinosaur may have been buried by sand and gravel after death, later being washed to the surface by a flood before being buried again.
• Site and Protection:Port Island, part of a geopark, is closed to the public to facilitate ongoing fossil investigations and excavation work.
• Geological and Archaeological Importance:The discovery underscores the significance of Hong Kong's geoparks and its role in preserving and showcasing natural history.This finding contributes to global understanding of prehistoric life, especially in the Cretaceous period.

In News:

India with an abysmal score of 45.5 (out of 100) has been ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index, 2024.

India's Ranking and Score:

• Rank: India ranks 176th out of 180 countries.
• Score: 45.5 out of 100.
• Context: India is listed among the five "worst performers," alongside Kiribati (180), Turkey (179), Iraq (178), and Micronesia (177).

Key Factors Affecting India’s Ranking:

• Inefficient Land Management: The main contributing factor to India's low ranking.
• Threats to Biodiversity: Rising threats due to habitat loss, deforestation, climate change, and pollution.
• Deforestation: Between 2001 and 2019, India lost 23,300 sq. km of tree cover, exacerbating biodiversity loss.

Focus Areas of the Nature Conservation Index (NCI):

• Land Management: Inefficient land use practices, with 53% of land converted for urban, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
• Biodiversity Threats: Habitat loss, fragmentation, and declining populations of marine and terrestrial species.
• Governance and Capacity: Challenges in enforcement of laws and governance structures that support conservation.
• Future Trends: India faces both opportunities and challenges, given its high population density and rapid development.

Key Findings:                                    

• Land Conversion and Urbanization: High rates of land conversion (53%) for development purposes, contributing to habitat loss.
• Soil Pollution: Issues with pesticide use and soil pollution (low nitrogen index of 0.77), affecting soil health.
• Marine Conservation: Only 0.2% of national waterways and none within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) are protected.
• Deforestation Impact: Loss of 23,300 sq. km of forest between 2001-2019.
• Biodiversity Decline: Despite 40% of marine species and 65% of terrestrial species in protected areas, biodiversity continues to decline—67.5% of marine species and 46.9% of terrestrial species face population decreases.

Marine and Terrestrial Conservation:

• Marine Areas: Need for greater investment in marine conservation, as India's marine protected areas (MPAs) are limited.
• Protected Areas: While 7.5% of India’s terrestrial area is protected, significant threats like climate change and habitat fragmentation persist.

Biodiversity and Climate Change:

• Climate Change Risks: Impacts on vulnerable ecosystems, including coral reefs and alpine regions, further threaten biodiversity.
• Population Growth: India’s rapidly growing population (one of the highest in the world) places constant pressure on natural resources and ecosystems.

Illegal Wildlife Trade:

• Global Ranking: India is the fourth-largest illegal wildlife trader globally, with an annual trade worth approximately £15 billion.
• Call for Action: Stronger enforcement of wildlife protection laws and international cooperation are crucial to combat illegal wildlife trade.

SDGs and India’s Conservation Challenges:

• SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land): India faces significant challenges in meeting these Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in protecting marine life and terrestrial ecosystems.

Recommendations for Improvement:

• Stronger Political Will: Political commitment is essential for passing laws that promote sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.
• Enforcement and Funding: Increased funding for environmental initiatives and better enforcement of conservation policies are necessary to address the conservation challenges.
• Sustainable Development: Integrating sustainable land use practices and improving governance structures for conservation are key areas for focus.

In News:

The Space Commission also approved a joint moon mission with Japan called the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission. For LUPEX, ISRO is developing a different moon lander than the one it used for Chandrayaan-3

New Space Missions and Developments

• Chandrayaan-4 (Moon Mission):
  • Type: Sample-return mission.
  • Launch: Expected by 2027.
  • Cost: ?2,104 crore.
  • Objective: Sample collection of moon soil and rock to return to Earth.
  • Mission Details: Two LVM-3 launch vehicles will launch components that will dock in Earth orbit before heading to the moon. The samples will be sent back using a bespoke canister.
• Lunar Polar Exploration Mission (LUPEX):
  • Collaboration: Joint mission with Japan.
  • Objective: Exploration of lunar poles with a new lander design, intended for potential crewed missions in future.
• Venus Orbiter Mission:
  • Launch Window: March 2028.
  • Cost: ?1,236 crore.
  • Objective: Study Venus' surface and atmosphere to understand planetary evolution in the Solar System.
• Next Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV):
  • Development Budget: ?8,240 crore for first three development flights.
  • Objective: A new launcher developed with private sector collaboration for future space missions.

Cabinet Approvals for Space Initiatives

• Human Spaceflight Programme (Gaganyaan):
  • Four new missions under Gaganyaan, including an uncrewed Gaganyaan flight.
  • Focus on developing technologies for India’s first space station, Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), planned by 2028.
• Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) Missions:
  • Phase 3: Approval for building 21 ISRO satellites, with 31 additional satellites by private companies.
  • Total Cost: ?26,968 crore.
• Development of a Third Launch Pad:
  • To support the NGLV and additional space missions at Sriharikota.

Upcoming Satellite Missions

• NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar):
  • Launch: Early 2025 on a GSAT launch vehicle.
  • Purpose: Earth observation using advanced radar technology.
  • Issue: Protective coating added due to high temperatures during testing.
• Proba-3 (European Space Agency):
  • Launch: November 29, 2024, aboard PSLV-XL.
  • Objective: Study the Sun’s corona using two satellites in formation, mimicking an eclipse to capture unique solar data.

Private Sector Involvement

• Manastu Space & Dhruva Space:
  • Collaboration: Testing green propulsion technology for the LEAP-3 mission.
  • Technology: Hydrogen-peroxide-based green propulsion system.
  • Launch: LEAP-3 mission in 2025.
• Bellatrix Aerospace:
  • Project: Prototype satellite for ultra-low earth orbit at 200 km altitude.
• Ananth Technologies:
  • Achievement: First private company to assemble, integrate, and test Space Docking Experiment (SpaDEx) satellites for ISRO.

Space Science and Research Updates

• Chandrayaan-3:
  • Findings: The crater where Chandrayaan-3 landed is older than the South Pole-Aitken Basin (4.2-4.3 billion years old).
  • Data Source: Optical High-Resolution Camera (Chandrayaan-2) and Pragyaan rover (Chandrayaan-3).
• Astrosat (India’s First Space Observatory):
  • Mission Life: Expected to last two more years (originally planned for 5 years).
  • Significance: Contributed to over 400 published papers based on multi-wavelength space observatory data.

In News:

• The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have signed an agreement to conduct biotechnology experiments on the upcoming Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS).
• Timeline for BAS:
  • The BAS is expected to be operational from 2028-2035, with the initial module launches slated for 2028 and full expansion by 2035.
  • It will be located at an altitude of 400 km above Earth and will support 15–20-day missions in space.

Focus Areas of Research

• Health Impact:
  • Weightlessness & Muscle Health: Studying the effects of zero-gravity on muscle loss during space missions.
  • Radiation Effects: Investigating how space radiation impacts astronaut health over long durations.
• Bio-Manufacturing:
  • Algae Studies: Exploring algae for potential use in nutrient-rich, long-lasting food sources and biofuel production.
  • Food Preservation: Identifying algae varieties that can help preserve food for longer periods in space.
• Integration with Gaganyaan Mission:
  • Experiments may also be conducted during uncrewed test flights for the Gaganyaan mission (India’s first crewed mission to space, scheduled for 2025-2026).

BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment and Employment) Policy

• Objective: The BioE3 policy aims to boost bio-manufacturing in India, which is projected to contribute $300 billion to the Indian economy by 2030.
• Key Focus Areas:
  • High-Value Bio-Based Products: Promotes the development of bio-based chemicals, biopolymers, enzymes, and smart proteins.
  • Climate-Resilient Agriculture & Carbon Capture: Aims to strengthen agricultural practices to withstand climate change and promote carbon capture technologies.
  • Healthcare & Nutrition: Focuses on advancements in biotherapeutics, functional foods, and regenerative medicine.
  • Marine & Space Biotechnology: Encourages research in space and marine biotechnology for new applications.
  • Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Supports R&D-driven entrepreneurship through the establishment of bio-manufacturing hubs, bio-AI centers, and biofoundries.
  • Employment Growth: Aims to create skilled jobs in the growing bioeconomy, promoting green growth and sustainable industries.

Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) Overview

• Structure: The station will consist of:
  • Command Module
  • Habitat Module
  • Propulsion Systems
  • Docking Ports
• Objective: To support long-term research in space life sciences and bio-manufacturing, with a focus on human health, food sustainability, and biotechnology innovations.

In News:

The Livestock Census is a crucial tool for understanding the current status of India’s livestock sector and its contribution to the economy and society.

What is the Livestock Census?

• The Livestock Census is a nationwide survey conducted every five years to assess the number, species, breed, age, sex, and ownership status of domesticated animals and poultry, including stray animals.
• Purpose: It helps in collecting comprehensive data about the livestock population and their role in the economy and society.
• First Census: The first livestock census was conducted in 1919, and this is the 21st edition.
• Next Census: The 21st Livestock Census will be conducted between October 2024 and February 2025 by approximately 87,000 enumerators across 30 crore households in India.

Animals Covered in the Census

• The census will account for 16 species of animals, including:
  • Cattle, Buffalo, Mithun, Yak, Sheep, Goat, Pig, Camel, Horse, Ponies, Mule, Donkey
  • Dog, Rabbit, Elephant
  • Poultry: Fowl, Chicken, Duck, Turkey, Geese, Quail, Ostrich, and Emu
• The census will also collect data on 219 indigenous breeds of these species recognized by the ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR).

Objectives of the Livestock Census

• Economic Contribution: The livestock sector contributes approximately:
  • 30% of the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the agricultural sector
  • 4.7% of India's overall GVA
  • It plays a crucial role in rural employment, particularly in poultry and animal husbandry.
• Policy Formulation and Planning:
  • The data from the census is critical for formulating and implementing policies related to livestock, ensuring sustainable growth in the sector.
  • It helps in monitoring and estimating GVA from livestock.
• Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
  • Provides vital data for tracking the progress towards Goal 2 of SDGs (Zero Hunger) and Target 2.5, which focuses on maintaining genetic diversity in livestock, particularly addressing local breeds at risk of extinction (Indicator 2.5.2).
• Sectoral Monitoring:
  • The census helps in monitoring the performance and health of India’s livestock sector, which is vital for ensuring food security, rural livelihoods, and economic growth.

Key Features of the 21st Livestock Census

• Digitization:
  • Like the 2019 Census, this year’s census will be fully digitized, with data collected via a mobile application.
  • Digital Monitoring: A dashboard will monitor progress at various levels, and the latitude and longitude of the data collection locations will be recorded.
  • A software-based livestock census report will be generated to streamline analysis.
• New Data Points:
  • For the first time, data on pastoral animals and pastoralists will be collected, focusing on their socio-economic status and livestock holdings.
  • Granular Data: The census will gather information on:
    • Proportions of households that rely on livestock for major income.
    • Gender-based data on stray cattle.
• Extended Scope:
  • In addition to animal population statistics, the census will also focus on the socio-economic contributions of the livestock sector, gender inclusion, and employment.

Significance of the Livestock Census

• A Comprehensive Livestock Profile:
  • Provides a holistic view of livestock population and the interlinkages between animal husbandry, agriculture, and rural economies.
  • Assists in the management and preservation of indigenous animal breeds.
• Informed Decision-Making:
  • Helps policymakers, researchers, and development organizations in formulating strategies for sectoral growth, genetic diversity preservation, and livelihood enhancement for rural communities.
• Monitoring Livestock Health:
  • The census helps in tracking the health and sustainability of India’s livestock population, which is essential for ensuring food security and preventing animal diseases.

Findings of the 2019 Livestock Census

• Total Livestock Population: 535.78 million
  • Cattle: 192.9 million
  • Goats: 148.88 million
  • Buffaloes: 109.85 million
  • Sheep: 74.26 million
  • Pigs: 9.06 million
  • Other species contributed a small fraction to the total livestock population (0.23%).

In News:

Recently, ‘Abhay’, the seventh ship in the Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) series was launched.

Key Details:

Project Background

• Contract Details: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata, in April 2019 for the construction of eight ASW SWC ships.
• Class of Ships: The Arnala-class ships are intended to replace the older Abhay-class ASW Corvettes currently in service with the Indian Navy.
• Purpose: These ships are designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations in coastal waters and to conduct Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO) and mine-laying activities.

Design and Features of 'Abhay'

• Dimensions:
  • Length: 77 meters
  • Width: 10 meters
• Speed and Endurance:
  • Maximum speed: 25 knots
  • Endurance: 1800 nautical miles (NM).
• Propulsion: Waterjet-propelled, offering agility and swift response in tactical situations.
• Indigenous Content: Over 80% indigenous content, supporting India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative in defence manufacturing.

Capabilities of the ASW SWC

• Anti-Submarine Warfare:
  • Designed to conduct subsurface surveillance and anti-submarine operations in coastal waters.
  • Equipped with advanced sonar systems, including Hull-Mounted Sonar and Low-Frequency Variable Depth Sonar for enhanced underwater surveillance.
• Armament and Equipment:
  • Torpedoes and ASW rockets for anti-submarine operations.
  • Mines for mine-laying operations.
  • Close-in Weapon System (CIWS): 30 mm for close-range defence against aerial and surface threats.
  • 12.7 mm Stabilized Remote-Control Guns for additional defensive capability.

Strategic Importance

• Coastal Defence: The ASW SWC ships enhance the Navy’s capability to defend India’s extensive coastline and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) against submarine threats.
• Operational Role:
  • In addition to anti-submarine warfare, these ships can conduct Low-Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO), which include operations against non-traditional threats.
  • Mine-laying capability to disrupt enemy naval operations.
• Advanced Detection: These ships are equipped to track both surface and underwater targets, enabling them to coordinate operations with aircraft, strengthening maritime security.

In News:

IndiaAI and Meta have announced the establishment of the Center for Generative AI, Srijan (????) at IIT Jodhpur, along with the launch of the “YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building” in collaboration with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), for the advancement of open source artificial intelligence (AI) in India.

Key Initiatives Launched

• Center for Generative AI, Srijan (????) at IIT Jodhpur:
  • Focus on Generative AI (GenAI) research and innovation.
  • Meta’s support for ethical and responsible development of AI technologies.
  • Aim to empower researchers, students, and practitioners with the tools for responsible AI deployment.
  • Focus Areas: Open science, AI policy advisory, and indigenous AI application development.
• YuvAi Initiative for Skilling and Capacity Building:
  • Target: Empower 100,000 students and young developers (ages 18-30) with AI skills.
  • Core Focus: Leveraging open-source Large Language Models (LLMs) for real-world solutions.
  • Skills Development: Generative AI, open-source tools, and sector-specific AI applications (healthcare, education, agriculture, smart cities, mobility, and financial inclusion).
  • Partnership: Collaboration with AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education).

Strategic Goals and Outcomes

• Research and Innovation:
  • Strengthen India’s AI ecosystem through groundbreaking research and collaborations.
  • Focus on open-source AI and indigenous AI solutions for national challenges.
  • Empower India to lead in AI through ethical and responsible AI deployment.
• AI Talent Development:
  • Bridge the AI talent gap by training young developers in open-source AI technologies.
  • Develop AI solutions for critical sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, smart cities, and financial inclusion.
  • Program Components:
    • GenAI Resource Hub with courses, case studies, and open datasets.
    • Unleash LLM Hackathons for students to propose AI solutions for real-world challenges.
    • Support for AI startups through an Innovation Accelerator.

Sectoral Focus and Impact

• Healthcare: AI for diagnostics, personalized medicine, and healthcare delivery.
• Education: AI tools for enhancing learning outcomes and personalized education.
• Agriculture: AI solutions for precision farming, pest control, and crop management.
• Smart Cities: AI in urban planning, traffic management, and public services.
• Mobility: AI applications in transportation, logistics, and urban mobility.
• Financial Inclusion: AI in fintech, digital payments, and financial services for underserved populations.

Additional Programs and Opportunities

• AICTE Collaboration: Mobilizing technical institutions across India to build AI capabilities.
• Master Training Activation Workshops: To introduce foundational AI concepts to students.
• Mentorship and Grants: Top AI solutions from hackathons will receive mentoring, seed grants, and market support.
• Student Startups: AI Innovation Accelerator will incubate 10 student-led AI startups experimenting with open-source models.

In News:

Recently, the Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying launched the Pandemic Fund Project on "Animal Health Security Strengthening in India for Pandemic Preparedness and Response"in New Delhi.

Key Highlights:

Launch of Pandemic Fund Project

• Objective: Strengthening animal health security in India to enhance pandemic preparedness and response.
• Funding: $25 million initiative funded by the G20 Pandemic Fund.
• Location: New Delhi, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.

Context and Importance

• Livestock Sector: Crucial for socio-economic upliftment, contributing to employment and rural development.
• Growth in Livestock Sector: Significant progress in the last 9 years through schemes like the National Animal Disease Control Program (NADCP).
• Key Diseases Targeted:
  • Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD): Aimed at eradication, with over 90.87 crore vaccines administered.
  • Brucellosis: Over 4.23 crore vaccines administered.

Objectives of the Pandemic Fund Project

• Enhanced Disease Surveillance: Includes genomic and environmental monitoring for early warning systems.
• Laboratory Infrastructure Development: Upgradation for better diagnosis and disease management.
• Cross-Border Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships for global monitoring of zoonotic diseases.
• Integrated Monitoring System: Creation of a robust system for managing zoonotic diseases, with a focus on early detection and containment.

Documents Released for Strengthening Animal Health

• Standard Veterinary Treatment Guidelines (SVTG):
  • Best practices for veterinary care to improve livestock health and productivity.
  • Supports national action plans, especially for combating antimicrobial resistance.
• Crisis Management Plan (CMP) for Animal Diseases:
  • Framework for effective response and containment during animal disease outbreaks.
  • Ensures timely mitigation of animal disease crises.

One Health Approach

• Integration of Human, Animal, and Environmental Health: Key to preventing and managing future health crises.
• Zoonotic Risks: The project emphasizes reducing zoonotic disease transmission from animals to humans, crucial given the origins of many recent public health emergencies.

Implementation and Collaboration

• The project will be executed in collaboration with global institutions:
  • Asian Development Bank (ADB)
  • Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
  • World Bank

In News:

• Recently, the Chanakya Defence Dialogue (CDD) 2024, second edition, was held at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• Theme: "Drivers in Nation Building: Fueling Growth Through Comprehensive Security."
• Focus: Discussions on integrating national security into India's development trajectory and global strategy for a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Key Objectives:

• The dialogue aimed to explore India’s strategic directions and development priorities by fostering discussions between policymakers, strategic thinkers, defence experts, and academia.
• Highlighted the link between national security and economic growth, stressing how security frameworks are vital for national progress.

Key Sessions and Discussions:

• Session 1: Social Cohesion and Inclusive Growth: Pillars of a Secure Nation:
  • Focused on internal security, social unity, and inclusive development.
  • Panelists discussed the role of community engagement, countering terrorism, and law enforcement reforms.
  • Emphasized the need for integrating social progress and addressing challenges like separatism and terrorist narratives.
  • Panelists called for evidence-based policies for equitable growth and stronger security frameworks to protect the country from internal threats.
• Session 2: Blurring Frontiers: The Convergence of Technology & Security:
  • Addressed the intersection of technology and national security.
  • Topics included AI, quantum computing, IoT, and blockchain for improving cyber resilience and data protection.
  • Panelists emphasized the need to balance technological innovation with strong security measures, particularly in cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection.
• Session 3: Ground-breakers: Shaping Land Warfare, Reflections for the Indian Army:
  • Explored the integration of emerging technologies like AI, unmanned systems, and cyber warfare tools in enhancing military readiness.
  • Focused on indigenous defense technologies under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, promoting self-reliance and reducing dependency on foreign technologies.
  • Emphasized multi-domain operations and the challenges of adapting to evolving security threats, especially from advanced cyber and space warfare.

Strategic Insights:

• Economic Growth & Security: The dialogue highlighted that national security and economic growth are interlinked, with a strong military infrastructure crucial for sustaining development.
• Role of Technology: Technological advancements like AI, space technology, and cybersecurity are pivotal for enhancing India's defense capabilities and strategic posture in a rapidly evolving global security landscape.
• Inclusive Security: Emphasized social cohesion and inclusive growth as key components of national security, acknowledging that a unified society contributes significantly to national resilience.
• Global Diplomacy: India’s global leadership in multilateral forums, its stance on peacekeeping, and its role in promoting sustainable development were discussed as part of the country’s soft power strategy.

In News:

Precision medicine is bringing in a new era of personalised healthcare. The field began to take concrete shape when scientists were wrapping up the Human Genome Project.

Introduction to Precision Medicine:

• Precision Medicine is a novel approach to healthcare that tailors treatments and preventive strategies based on an individual’s genetics, environment, and lifestyle, instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach.
• It leverages technologies like genomics, gene editing (CRISPR), and mRNA therapeutics to address various diseases such as cancer, chronic diseases, and genetic disorders.
• Recent breakthroughs include gene therapy for restoring vision and stem cell transplants for reversing diabetes, demonstrating the transformative potential of precision medicine.

Role of Biobanks in Precision Medicine:

• Biobanks are repositories storing biological samples (blood, DNA, tissues) along with associated health data. These samples are crucial for research and development of personalized treatments.
• Large and diverse biobanks are essential for ensuring that precision medicine benefits a wide demographic, as data from homogenous groups could limit the applicability of findings.
• Recent studies using biobank data have led to breakthroughs, such as identifying rare genetic disorders and developing organoid models for high-throughput drug screening.

Precision Medicine and Biobanks in India:

• Market Growth: India’s precision medicine market is growing at a CAGR of 16%, expected to surpass USD 5 billion by 2030, contributing 36% to the national bioeconomy.
• Policy Framework: The government’s BioE3 policy aims to promote biomanufacturing, with a focus on precision therapeutics and related technologies like gene editing and cancer immunotherapy.
• Biobank Initiatives:
  • Genome India Programme: Completed sequencing of 10,000 genomes from 99 ethnic groups, aimed at identifying treatments for rare genetic diseases.
  • Phenome India Project: Focused on collecting 10,000 samples for improving prediction models for cardio-metabolic diseases.
  • Paediatric Rare Genetic Disorders (PRaGeD) Mission: Aiming to identify genes that could help develop targeted therapies for genetic diseases in children.

Regulatory and Ethical Challenges in Biobanking:

• India’s biobanking regulations are inconsistent, hindering the full potential of precision medicine. Unlike countries like the U.K., U.S., and Japan, which have comprehensive laws addressing issues like informed consent, data protection, and privacy, India lacks a cohesive regulatory framework.
• Informed Consent Issues: In India, participants provide samples without full knowledge of how their data will be used, who will have access to it, and for how long it will be stored. This lack of transparency undermines public trust in biobank research.
• Ethical Concerns: Without a clear regulatory framework, there is a risk of misuse of biological samples, such as non-consensual data sharing and sample mishandling.
• International Implications: The absence of robust laws allows foreign pharmaceutical companies to access Indian biobank data and samples without ensuring that the Indian population benefits from the resulting research or profits.

Global Comparison of Biobank Regulations:

• International Standards: Countries like the U.K., U.S., and Japan have established comprehensive biobank regulations, addressing:
  • Informed consent for sample collection and data usage.
  • Privacy protection and secure storage of genetic information.
  • Withdrawal rights for participants at any stage of research.
• India’s biobank regulations lack clear provisions for data protection and participant rights, limiting the effectiveness of research and undermining public confidence in biobanks.

In News:

Recently, the Financial Services Secretary stated that Microfinance institutions (MFIs) have played a crucial role in fostering financial inclusion but they should refrain from any reckless lending.

Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and Financial Inclusion:

• MFIs provide small loans and financial services to low-income and marginalized groups, particularly those without access to formal banking services.
• Goal: To promote financial inclusion and empower marginalized communities, especially women, by enabling them to become self-sufficient and improve their socio-economic status.

• In India, over 168 MFIs serve around 3 crore clients across 29 states and 563 districts.
• The sector has grown significantly and is crucial for empowering Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) to access credit and other financial services.

Concerns over Reckless Lending:

• The Financial Services Secretary, emphasized that MFIs should avoid reckless lending practices that could harm both borrowers and the sector.
• Poor underwriting and irresponsible lending could lead to unsustainable debt, especially for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Joint Liability Groups (JLGs) with limited financial literacy.
• Key Advice: Lending practices must be responsible, careful, and should aim to empower borrowers, not exploit their limited understanding.

Government Programs Supporting MFIs:

• SHG-Bank Linkage Programme: Over 77 lakh SHGs with a total loan outstanding of ?2.6 lakh crore, benefiting around 10 crore households.
• Lakhpati Didi Yojana: Aimed at empowering women, this scheme helps transform SHG members into women entrepreneurs.

Challenges Facing Microfinance Institutions:

• Regulatory Scrutiny: Many MFIs face scrutiny for high interest rates and non-compliance with borrower assessments. The RBI has urged MFIs to reassess lending practices.
• Over-Indebtedness: Many borrowers take loans from multiple MFIs, leading to unsustainable debt. As of March 2024, over 12% of borrowers had multiple loans, risking defaults.
• Low Financial Literacy: A significant challenge is low financial literacy among borrowers, which increases the risk of defaults and harms the reputation of MFIs.

RBI Guidelines on Microfinance (2022):

• Collateral-Free Loans: For households with income up to ?3 lakh, loans should be collateral-free.
• Repayment Cap: Monthly loan repayments should not exceed 50% of the borrower’s monthly income.
• Flexibility in Repayment: MFIs must offer flexible repayment options and ensure proper income assessment.
• Interest Rate Cap: The RBI has implemented guidelines to limit excessive interest rates charged by MFIs.

Government Schemes for Microfinance:

• Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): Provides financial assistance to non-corporate, non-farm small/micro enterprises.
• National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM): Promotes rural livelihoods through the formation and capacity building of Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
• Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Antyodaya Yojana: Focuses on the empowerment of rural poor through skill development and income generation.
• Credit Guarantee Fund for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE): Provides guarantee cover to micro and small enterprises.

Way Forward for Microfinance Sector:

• Responsible Lending: MFIs must prioritize affordable lending practices, ensuring borrower’s repayment capacity is carefully assessed to avoid over-indebtedness.
• Enhancing Financial Literacy: MFIs should focus on financial education for borrowers, enabling them to make informed choices.
• Adherence to Regulatory Guidelines: MFIs should comply strictly with RBI regulations, including interest rate caps and borrower income assessments, to enhance sector transparency and trust.
• Malegam Committee Recommendations: Implementing suggestions like capping interest rates, tracking multiple loans, and improving transparency to prevent over-indebtedness.
• Diversifying Funding Sources: To reduce vulnerability to economic downturns, MFIs should work on diversifying their funding sources, reducing dependence on external capital.