In News:

ICMR announces ‘First in the World Challenge’ to encourage scientists to find innovative ideas to tackle health issues.

Key Highlights:

• Objective:
  • Encourage bold, out-of-the-box ideas for solving difficult health problems.
  • Aim to foster novel and groundbreaking biomedical innovations (vaccines, drugs, diagnostics, interventions, etc.).
  • Target projects that are “first of their kind” and have never been tried or tested globally.
• Key Features of the Initiative:
  • Focus on Groundbreaking Innovations:
    • Emphasis on high-risk, high-reward ideas with potential for significant global health impact.
    • Excludes proposals aiming for incremental knowledge or process innovation.
  • Scope of Research:
    • Breakthroughs in biomedical and health technologies such as:
      • Vaccines
      • Drugs/Therapeutics
      • Diagnostics
      • Interventions
• Funding & Support:
  • Provides funding for projects at various stages, from proof-of-concept to prototype development and final product.
  • Support for projects that have the potential to lead to “first-of-its-kind” biomedical innovations.
• Application Process:
  • Open to individual researchers or teams (from single or multiple institutions).
  • Teams must designate a Principal Investigator responsible for the project’s technical, administrative, and financial aspects.
• Selection Criteria:
  • A selection committee will be formed with:
    • Experts, innovators, policymakers, and distinguished scientists with an outstanding research record.
    • Proposals evaluated based on originality, impact potential, and innovation.

About the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

• History:Founded in 1911 as the Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA), renamed ICMR in 1949.
• Role & Mandate:
  • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
  • Formulates, coordinates, and promotes biomedical research in India.
  • Focus on improving public health and addressing national health challenges.
• Vision:“Translating Research into Action for Improving the Health of the Population.”

In News:

• India, represented by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED), has joined the Steering Committee of the Asset Recovery Interagency Network-Asia Pacific (ARIN-AP).
• Leadership Role: India will assume the presidency of ARIN-AP and host the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in 2026, providing a platform for global cooperation in asset recovery and tackling economic crimes.

ARIN-AP Overview:

• Establishment: ARIN-AP is a multi-agency network formed to address the proceeds of crime across the Asia-Pacific region.
• Network Goals: Its mission is to facilitate cross-border collaboration in the areas of asset tracing, freezing, and confiscation.
• Membership: ARIN-AP includes 28 member jurisdictions and 9 observers, and operates as a key component of the Global CARIN Network (Camden Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network).
• Functioning: ARIN-AP operates through a network of contact points that enable intelligence exchange among member agencies, promoting effective communication and coordination for asset recovery.

Significance of ARIN-AP's Work:

• Combating Economic Crimes: ARIN-AP enhances the efforts of law enforcement agencies in tracing and recovering assets linked to criminal activities, including both movable and immovable assets.
• Informal Exchange of Intelligence: The network allows for the informal exchange of intelligence between agencies, which often accelerates the identification and recovery of proceeds of crime. This can later lead to formal actions through bilateral or multilateral agreements.
• Global Impact: With over 100 jurisdictions in the broader CARIN Network, ARIN-AP plays a key role in global efforts to combat fugitive economic offenders and illicit financial flows.

India’s Contribution and Alignment with G-20 Priorities:

• India’s Leadership: India’s presidency in ARIN-AP will enhance its leadership in asset recovery, facilitating closer cooperation with regional and international law enforcement agencies.
• G-20 Alignment: This role aligns with India’s priorities under the G-20 framework, particularly focusing on the Nine-Point Agenda aimed at tackling fugitive economic offenders and improving asset recovery mechanisms.

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:

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:

• Recently, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched the Civil Registration System (CRS) mobile app.
• The app aims to integrate technology with governance by making the registration of births and deaths more accessible, seamless, and hassle-free.

Key Features of the App:

• Anytime, Anywhere Registration: Citizens can register births and deaths from anywhere and at any time, in their State’s official language.
• The app is designed to significantly reduce the time required for registration, making it more efficient and convenient for users.

Legal and Policy Background:

• The Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act, 2023 mandates that all births and deaths in India, occurring from October 1, 2023, must be digitally registered through the Centre’s portal: dc.crsorgi.gov.in.
• This move is part of the broader effort to digitize civil records and create a centralized database.

Benefits of Digital Registration:

• Digital Birth Certificates: The new system will issue digital birth certificates which will serve as a single document to prove the date of birth for various services, such as:
  • Admission to educational institutions
  • Applying for government jobs
  • Marriage registration
• Centralized Database: The integration of birth and death data into a centralized database will help update critical records such as:
  • National Population Register (NPR)
  • Ration cards
  • Property registration
  • Electoral rolls

National Population Register (NPR) Integration:

• The data collected through the CRS app will assist in updating the National Population Register (NPR), which was first collected in 2010 and updated in 2015 through door-to-door enumeration.
• The NPR serves as the first step toward the creation of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) under the Citizenship Act, aimed at identifying Indian citizens.

In News:

• Brazilhas opted not to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), becoming the second BRICS country after India to reject the multi-billion-dollar infrastructure project.
• Brazil prefers to explore alternative ways to collaborate with Chinese investors without signing a formal treaty, aiming to avoid the perceived risks of the BRI.

BRICS and India’s Role:

• Brazil’s decision follows India’s long-standing opposition to the BRI, particularly due to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, which India views as a violation of its sovereignty.
• India has consistently argued that BRI projects should adhere to international norms, good governance, and transparency, emphasizing that such initiatives should be financially sustainable and not lead to debt traps.

Brazil’s Broader Economic Strategy:

• Brazil aims to balance its relationship with China, which is a major economic partner, but without being bound by the BRI. This decision reflects broader concerns within Brazil about the long-term financial sustainability of BRI projects, especially after witnessing debt crises in other countries like Sri Lanka.

Global Context and the BRI's Impact:

• The BRI, launched by China in 2013, spans several infrastructure sectors and has expanded globally, but it has faced criticism for its potential to trap smaller nations in unsustainable debt.
• India and Brazil’s resistance to the BRI highlights growing skepticism among emerging economies about the long-term implications of joining China's flagship project.

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 Union Ministry of Culture plans to revive and relaunch the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) to enhance the preservation and accessibility of India’s ancient texts.
• The mission’s objective is to document, conserve, digitize, and disseminate India’s rich manuscript heritage, ensuring their protection and public access.

Formation of a New Autonomous Body:

• The National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) is likely to be restructured into an autonomous body called the National Manuscripts Authority, which will be under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture.
• The new body will address the challenges and gaps in manuscript preservation and management, offering more focused and flexible governance.

Background and Achievements:

• Established in 2003, the NMM has been part of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for Arts (IGNCA).
• Key achievements:
  • 52 lakh manuscripts have had metadata prepared.
  • Over 3 lakh manuscripts have been digitized, though only one-third have been uploaded for public access.
  • Preventive and curative conservation of over 9 crore folios of manuscripts has been undertaken over the last 21 years.
  • The NMM has set up 100 Manuscripts Resource Centres and Manuscripts Conservation Centres across India.

Current Challenges and Gaps:

• Data Uploading and Access:
  • Of the 130,000 digitized manuscripts, only 70,000 are accessible online due to the absence of a comprehensive access policy.
  • A significant portion (around 80%) of manuscripts areprivately owned, restricting public access and usage.
• Digitization Mismatch:
  • There have been concerns about discrepancies between the digitized data and the original manuscripts, which requires correction to ensure authenticity and accuracy.
• Lack of Comprehensive Access Policy:
  • Limited public access to manuscripts due to policy restrictions hinders further research and public engagement with this rich heritage.

Scope and Future of NMM:

• India's Manuscript Heritage: India is believed to have around 10 million manuscripts, spread across various regions, languages, scripts, and topics.
• Digitization and Accessibility: Moving forward, the key challenge will be ensuring that a larger proportion of the manuscripts are digitized, uploaded, and made publicly available, particularly from private collections.
• The establishment of the National Manuscripts Authority is expected to streamline efforts and enhance coordination between government bodies, private institutions, and scholars.

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:

• Scientists have developed an ultrasound-based technique for detecting cancer, aiming to replace traditional biopsies, which are invasive and painful.
• Promising Alternative: The method uses high-energy ultrasound to release biomarkers (RNA, DNA, and proteins) from cancerous tissue into the bloodstream, allowing for early cancer detection with minimal discomfort.
• Presented at Acoustical Society Conference: The technique was discussed at the joint meeting of the Acoustical Society of America and Canadian Acoustical Association in May 2024.

Traditional Cancer Detection vs. New Ultrasound Approach

• Current Gold Standard - Biopsy: Traditionally, cancer is diagnosed using biopsies, where a tissue sample is extracted using a needle from suspected cancerous areas. Although effective, biopsies are invasive, painful, and carry some risks.
• Ultrasound as a Non-Invasive Alternative: The new method involves using high-frequency ultrasound waves to break off cancerous tissue into droplets, which are then released into the bloodstream. The biomarkers in the droplets can be analyzed for cancerous mutations.
• Enhanced Sensitivity: This ultrasound-based technique increases the levels of genetic and vesicle biomarkers in blood samples by over 100 times, enabling the detection of cancers and specific mutations that are otherwise undetectable in blood.

Key Findings of the Research

• Single Cancer Cell Detection: The technique allows for the detection of a single cancer cell in blood samples. It works by passing ultrasound waves through isolated blood samples, which break apart circulating cancer cells, releasing biomarkers into the blood.
• Cost-Effective: Traditional methods for detecting circulating cancer cells are costly (e.g., the ‘CellSearch’ test costs $10,000). In contrast, this ultrasound method can detect cancer with a much lower cost, around $100 (?8,400).
• Potential for Early Diagnosis: The research shows promise for detecting cancer at an early stage, even before symptoms appear, using blood samples.

Challenges and Next Steps

• Need for Large-Scale Clinical Trials: While the technique shows potential, large cohort studies involving diverse patient groups across different geographies and ethnicities are needed to validate the approach.
• Long-Term Study for Effectiveness: Further research is required to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the technique across various cancer types and to determine the ideal biomarker thresholds for early detection.
• Regulatory Approval and Commercialization: If the clinical trials yield positive results, the method could be commercially available in approximately five years, following regulatory approval.

Understanding Cancer and Its Types

• Cancer Definition: Cancer refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can form tumors and spread to other parts of the body.
• Types of Cancer:
  • Carcinoma: Cancer originating in epithelial cells (e.g., breast, lung, prostate cancer).
  • Sarcoma: Affects connective tissues like bones and muscles.
  • Leukemia: Affects blood-forming tissues, leading to abnormal white blood cell production.
  • Lymphoma: Begins in immune cells, including Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
  • Melanoma: Cancer of pigment-producing skin cells.
• Key Differences Between Normal and Cancer Cells:
  • Cancer cells grow uncontrollably and evade immune detection.
  • Cancerous cells accumulate chromosomal abnormalities, unlike normal cells, which follow regulated growth patterns.

In News:

The Chenchus of Penukumadugu have lived in the dense Nallamala forests for centuries, their existence intertwined with the wilderness around them. However, their inability to keep up with the relentless pace of modernisation has led to dwindling work opportunities under the MGNREGA.

Chenchu Tribe Overview

• Location: Primarily in the dense Nallamala forests, Andhra Pradesh (AP).
• Tradition: Historically hunter-gatherers, now relying on subsistence farming.
• Vulnerable Status: Classified as one of the 12 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Andhra Pradesh due to low literacy, stagnant population growth, and limited access to development.
• Livelihood: Dependent on forest resources (Non-Timber Forest Produce - NTFP) and agricultural labor.

Impact of MGNREGS (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme)

• MGNREGS Chenchu Special Project: Launched in 2009 to address specific needs of the Chenchus, such as physical strength, food insecurities, and cultural practices.
• Before Discontinuation: Provided 180 days of work per person annually, which helped Chenchus access regular income, improving food security and living conditions.
• Post-Discontinuation (2022):
  • The project was integrated into a nationwide MGNREGS framework, reducing workdays to the standard 100 days per household.
  • Consequences: Many Chenchus stopped engaging with MGNREGS due to bureaucratic hurdles (Aadhaar and bank linkage), reduced job days, and irregular wage payments.
  • Only 1,500 out of 4,000 enrolled households currently participate in MGNREGS work.

Key Issues Post-MGNREGS Reform

• Aadhaar & Bank Account Challenges:
  • Lack of literacy and digital skills makes the Aadhaar-based system intimidating.
  • Many Chenchus are excluded from PDS and health benefits due to missing or unlinked Aadhaar cards.
  • Absence of mobile phones and access to banks makes wage disbursement difficult.
• Irregular Payments & Trust Issues:
  • The shift to bank payments has created trust issues, as many Chenchus are illiterate and cannot verify wage deposits.
  • Distance from banks (up to 30 km) adds to the difficulty in accessing payments.

Forest Rights and Wildlife Conservation

• Forest Dependency: The Chenchus continue to depend on the forest for food and livelihood, but increasing restrictions due to wildlife conservation (e.g., Nagarjuna-Srisailam Tiger Reserve) have further curtailed their access to forest produce.
• Forest Rights Act (FRA): Many Chenchus have land pattas under the FRA but lack resources or support to utilize their land effectively due to the discontinuation of MGNREGS.

Government and Policy Response

• PVTG Initiatives: Various government initiatives like PM PVTG Mission, Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, and Janjatiya Gaurav Divas aim to uplift PVTGs, but their impact remains limited without proper implementation of specialized support programs like the MGNREGS Chenchu Special Project.

In News:

• The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has maintained India’s GDP growth forecast at 7% for FY2024, marking a moderation from 8.2% in 2023.
• FY2025 Projection: Growth is expected to slow further to 6.5% in FY2025.
• India’s growth is expected to be stronger than most other large economies, yet the downward revision reflects challenges in the global economy and moderation in domestic economic momentum.

Global Economic Growth Projections:

• Global Growth (2024-2025): Global growth is projected at 3.2% in 2024 and 2025, which is stable but modest. This growth rate is largely unchanged from previous IMF forecasts.
• Long-Term Outlook: The IMF's long-term projection for global growth is 3.1%, which is considered subpar compared to pre-pandemic growth rates, signaling a potential era of low growth.

Key Risks and Uncertainties:

• The IMF highlights several downside risks to global growth, including:
  • • Monetary tightening: Central banks' high-interest rate policies to combat inflation could have long-term negative effects on economic growth and financial stability.
    • Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing conflicts, such as the Russia-Ukraine war, could disrupt global supply chains and trade, exacerbating inflation and slowing growth.
    • China’s Economic Slowdown: China, the world’s second-largest economy, is facing a slower growth trajectory, especially in its real estate sector, which is dragging down its overall growth.
    • Structural Challenges: The aging population and weak productivity are long-term growth inhibitors in many advanced economies, adding uncertainty to future growth prospects.
• Inflation and Monetary Policy:
  • The IMF's inflation forecast shows global inflation cooling:
    • 2023: Global inflation is expected to reach 6.7%.
    • 2024: It is forecast to fall to 5.8%, with advanced economies expected to return to inflation targets sooner than emerging markets.
    • 2025: A further decline to 4.3%.
  • The primary driver of disinflation is not interest rate hikes but the unwinding of pandemic-related shocks, supply chain improvements, and the gradual return of labor supply.
  • Monetary Policy: Central banks are likely to ease policies once inflation nears target levels, but risks of further commodity price spikes or geopolitical tensions could delay this.

US and Europe Growth:

• Emerging Markets and Developing Economies:
  • Growth Outlook: The IMF forecasts growth in emerging markets and developing economies at 4.2% for 2024 and 2025, with a slight moderation to 3.9% by 2026.
  • Emerging Asia: Growth in emerging Asia (led by India and China) is expected to slow, from 5.7% in 2023 to 5% in 2025.
  • India’s Relative Strength: India’s growth continues to outperform many emerging economies, though the slowdown from 8.2% in 2023 to 7% in 2024 reflects global economic headwinds.
• Income Inequality Risks:
  • The IMF warns that low growth over an extended period (4+ years) could exacerbate income inequality within countries, as sluggish growth affects job creation and wage growth.
  • Countries with slow economic recovery are likely to see a widening gap between rich and poor, undermining social cohesion and stability.

In News:

• ?1.2 lakh crore is the projected financial loss due to cyber frauds in India over the next year (2024), according to the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Union Home Ministry.
  • This could amount to 0.7% of India’s GDP.
• Mule Accounts:
  • Mule accounts are a significant contributor to cyber frauds. These accounts are used to facilitate money laundering and illegal transactions.
  • On average, around 4,000 mule accounts are identified daily by I4C.
  • Mule accounts typically facilitate the transfer of funds out of India, often through cryptocurrency transactions.
• Sources of Cyber Scams:
  • A majority of frauds are linked to Chinese entities or China-based operations, with about half of the cybercrime complaints originating from China.
  • Other major hubs for cyber frauds include Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos, which house call-centre-like scam compounds.
  • Azerbaijan has also been identified as a new hotspot for such scams.
• International Dimension:
  • Fraudulent withdrawals have been reported from ATMs in Dubai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Russia using mule accounts.
  • The international nature of these scams often involves routing stolen funds through various countries, using methods like cryptocurrency exchanges.
• Cybercrime and Terror Financing:
  • Cyber scams have potential ramifications beyond financial losses; they can be used for terror financing and money laundering.
  • Cryptocurrency is a common medium for laundering money, with an example cited of ?5.5 crore laundered through 350 transactions in a short span.
• ATM Hotspots and Fraudulent Withdrawals:
  • 18 ATM hotspots have been identified across India where fraudulent withdrawals occur.
  • Fraudsters exploit these locations to withdraw money, often using mule bank accounts and cross-border ATM networks.
• Government Response:
  • The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is working to combat these frauds by convening meetings with the Union Finance Ministry and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
  • The objective is to curb the operation of mule accounts and strengthen the banking system to prevent such frauds.
  • Banks are being urged to flag unusually high-value transactions or accounts with low balances that are engaging in suspicious activity.
• Fraudulent Calls and Scam Compounds:
  • Indian fraudsters, in collaboration with international scam rings, use Indian mobile phone numbers to deceive citizens.
  • Countries like Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Azerbaijan have been identified as hubs for investment scams involving fraudulent calls.
• Helpline and Cyber Fraud Reporting System:
  • The Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (part of I4C) and the 1930 helpline provide mechanisms to report financial frauds.
  • ?11,269 crore in financial frauds was reported during the first half of 2024 via these channels.
  • The system also involves cooperation with over 200 financial intermediaries, including banks and wallets.

In News:

• A team of arachnologists has discovered a new genus of jumping spiders, Tenkana, found across southern India and northern Sri Lanka.
• The discovery includes two previously known species, Tenkanamanu and Tenkanaarkavathi, and introduces a new species, Tenkanajayamangali, from Karnataka.

Name and Origin:

• The name Tenkana comes from the Kannada word for "south," reflecting the geographical region where all known species of this genus are found—southern India and northern Sri Lanka.
• The genus belongs to the Plexippina subtribe of jumping spiders, which is distinct from related genera like Hyllus and Telamonia.

Key Findings:

• Tenkanajayamangali was first discovered in Devarayanadurga reserve forest, Tumakuru district, Karnataka, at the origin of the Jayamangali river.
• The new species was identified through genetic analysis and physical examination, showing it did not match any known species.

Physical Characteristics:

• The male and female Tenkanajayamangali exhibit distinct physical differences.
• The male has pale hairs covering most of its carapace, while the female is grey with a pattern.
• The ocular area of T. jayamangali is uniformly covered with white hairs, in contrast to T. arkavathi and T. manu, which have distinctive markings.

Habitat and Distribution:

• Tenkana spiders are typically ground-dwelling and prefer dry, open habitats like short grasses, leaf litter, and rocky outcrops.
• These spiders have been observed in Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Karnataka, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and some areas in Sri Lanka.
• The male and female spiders of T. jayamangali were discovered in different regions, 2 km apart, at the hilltop and foothills of the same forest.

Ecological and Behavioral Insights:

• The Tenkana genus is considered endemic to India, with species observed in diverse regions such as Bengaluru, Yercaud (Tamil Nadu), and Bannerghatta (Karnataka).
• These spiders are found in complex microhabitats, like shaded short grasses with dry leaf litter or rocky outcrops in relatively dry habitats.
• The movement of Tenkana spiders resembles that of Stenaelurillus, another ground-dwelling spider species.

In News:

• India and Pakistan have extended the Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor Agreement for another five years (until 2029).
• Purpose: The extension ensures uninterrupted operation of the corridor, allowing Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan.
• Significance: The extension reflects continued cooperation between India and Pakistan, with potential implications for improving bilateral relations.

Background of Kartarpur Corridor:

• Inception: The agreement was first signed on October 24, 2019, to allow visa-free access for Indian pilgrims to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur near Narowal in Pakistan.
• Pilgrimage Details:
  • Eligibility: Indian nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders can visit the gurdwara on a daily basis.
  • Return on Same Day: Pilgrims must return on the same day.
  • No Religious Restrictions: Pilgrims of any faith can use the corridor.
  • Capacity: Up to 5,000 pilgrims per day can visit the gurdwara.
• Historical Importance: The corridor facilitates the Sikh community's access to a key religious site, located just 4.7 km from the India-Pakistan border.
• Service Charge Dispute:
  • Pakistan's Service Fee: Pakistan continues to charge a $20 service fee (approx. ?1,680) per pilgrim, which India has consistently urged Pakistan to waive.
  • Pakistan’s Justification: Pakistan maintains the fee to cover the $17 million spent on refurbishing the gurdwara and developing infrastructure for the corridor.
• Geopolitical Context and Timing:
  • Recent Developments: The agreement renewal follows External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan to attend the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting.
  • Improved Bilateral Relations: Jaishankar’s visit marked the first visit by an Indian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly nine years, signaling potential thaw in relations, despite the lack of formal bilateral dialogue.
• Strategic and Religious Importance:
  • Religious Diplomacy: The Kartarpur Corridor is viewed as a confidence-building measure and a symbol of religious diplomacy, particularly for the Sikh community.
  • Historical Legacy: The corridor links Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur in Pakistan to Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak in India, facilitating access to a site of immense religious significance for Sikhs.
• Implications for India-Pakistan Relations:
  • No Formal Bilateral Talks: Despite the successful renewal of the agreement, formal talks between India and Pakistan remain suspended, particularly after India’s revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, which led to a diplomatic freeze.
  • Pakistan's Diplomatic Stance: Pakistan had recalled its high commissioner from India in August 2019, and tensions have remained high since then.
• Potential for Future Engagement:
  • Diplomatic Channels Opened: The renewal of the Kartarpur agreement and Jaishankar’s visit suggest that diplomatic channels are still open, and there may be scope for further engagement if both sides take steps to address outstanding issues.

In News:

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised India's GDP growth forecast for the fiscal year 2024-25 to 7%, up by 20 basis points from its previous estimate of 6.8%.

• India’s Growth Projections:
  • Current Fiscal Year (FY2024-25): India’s GDP growth is projected at 7%, unchanged from June 2024 estimates.
  • Next Fiscal Year (FY2025-26): Growth expected at 6.5%.
  • Growth Decline from FY2023 (8.2%): The slowdown is attributed to the exhaustion of pent-up demand post-pandemic and the economy returning to its potential.

• Global Economic Growth:
  • World Output: Projected global growth at 3.2% in both 2024 and 2025.
  • Advanced Economies: U.S. GDP growth revised upward to 2.8% in 2024 and 2.2% in 2025.
  • Emerging Markets & Developing Economies: Growth revised upwards, largely due to stronger economic activity in Asia, with China and India being key contributors.

• Global Inflation and Monetary Policy:
  • Inflation Decline: Global inflation has decreased from its peak of 9.4% in Q3 2022 to 3.5% projected by end-2025.
  • Inflation Outlook: Despite reductions in inflation, price pressures persist in some regions.
  • Monetary Policy Tightening: IMF acknowledges challenges due to tight monetary conditions in several economies and their potential impacts on labor markets.

• Global Risks and Challenges:
  • Geopolitical Tensions: Ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and escalating conflicts in West Asia (e.g., Lebanon) have increased geopolitical risks, potentially affecting commodity markets.
  • Protectionism: Growing protectionist policies worldwide are a risk to global trade and economic stability.
  • Sovereign Debt Stress: Debt burdens in several countries could become a source of instability.
  • Weak Chinese Economy: Slower-than-expected recovery in China remains a significant concern for global economic growth.
  • Monetary Policy Risks: Prolonged tight monetary policies in some countries could impact labor markets and economic recovery.

• IMF’s Policy Recommendations for Medium-Term Growth:
  • Monetary Policy Neutrality: Countries should adopt a neutral monetary policy stance to balance growth and inflation control.
  • Fiscal Policy Adjustment: Build fiscal buffers after years of loose fiscal policy to ensure stability.
  • Structural Reforms: Implement structural reforms to boost productivity and cope with challenges like aging populations, the climate transition, and the need for youth employment.

• India’s Economic Outlook - Key Drivers:
  • Rural Consumption Growth: The upward revision of India's FY2024-25 GDP forecast to 7% is driven by improved consumption, especially in rural areas.
  • Upward Revisions for 2023: The increased growth forecast also reflects positive carryover effects from India's 8.2% growth in 2023.
  • Emerging Asia's Growth: The growth outlook for emerging Asia is supported by India and China, though long-term growth prospects for China are weaker (projected to slow to 3.3% by 2029).

• Global Economic Outlook:
  • World Growth Projections: Global growth is expected to remain at 3.2% in 2024 and 3.3% in 2025.
  • Diverging Growth Rates: Growth across economies is converging as output gaps close, particularly in advanced economies (e.g., U.S. labor market cooling, euro area recovery).